It all started on the beach....

We were having a few days away at the caravan & what started out as a picnic lunch & some exercise on the beach turned into one of the most stressful times a pet owner can experience.

I noticed Roscoe was stopping every 30 seconds or so to wee & then the worst happened - I saw he was weeing blood.

Luckily, I got an immediate appointment with a local vet, I got some anti-inflammatory medicine & antibiotics for him & booked a check-up with my regular vet.

From there it was a long month of scans, surgery & sleepless nights during which we discovered that he had struvite bladder stones - 60 of them!!

There were doggy bodysuits, failed attempts at adapting nappies & new essential oils along the way & I learned a heck of a lot about bladder stones……

What are struvite stones?

Here's some information from Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine website:

Struvite bladder stones are one of the most common types of stones in dogs, especially in females. Also known as uroliths, struvite stones are rock-like formations of minerals. They most commonly form in a dog’s bladder or urethra from urinary tract infections (UTIs) and alterations in the urine pH.

The clinical signs of struvite stones are similar to signs of a UTI, including frequent or bloody urination. Treatment commonly involves antibiotics and veterinary therapeutic diets to dissolve the stones, but sometimes may require surgical removal. Struvite stone recurrence can be decreased by preventing UTIs and dietary changes.

Cause

In dogs, struvite stones are typically caused by UTIs and urease-producing bacteria. Struvite crystals form when the pH of urine becomes more alkaline and concentrated. When these changes occur, certain substances become supersaturated and promote the growth of struvite crystals. As more crystals form, they stick together and form an organized stone or multiple stones. Bacteria can get trapped in between layers of the stone as it enlarges.

Struvite stones are more common in young, female, small-breed dogs, though any size or breed of dog may be affected.

Clinical Signs

Some dogs may not show any signs, but the most common clinical signs may include:

• Bloody urine

• Increased frequency of urination

• Straining to urinate

• Urinary accidents in home

How did essential oils help?

A few years ago, I had the privilege of completing 2 courses, in person, with the amazing Caroline Ingraham. Caroline is the world authority of animal self-healing & the founder of Applied Zoopharmacognosy. So, I grabbed my textbook & got to work researching & applying my training. 

The main method of use with dogs is inhalation where the "patient" self -selects & self doses. This is a fascinating process to watch - the dog knows exactly what it needs & how much it needs.

I've used oils with Roscoe many times over the years and he's incredibly receptive to them. I'm always guided by him, and one session took place at the top of the stairs because that’s where he decided he was comfortable.

Here the oils I offered Roscoe after his surgery:

These oils particularly support the kidneys & urinary system & fight infection:

• Bitter Almond - Preventing infection, especially E.coli

• Carrot Seed - Cell repair

• Lemon - Kidney stones, antibacterial

• Sandalwood - Strengthening, antibacterial

• Yarrow - Inflammation, infection

• Garlic - Prevents bacteria from making proteins, so preventing growth

The ones he selected the most often were garlic & yarrow – I’d never used garlic essential oil before & believe me the house absolutely stank!! The bottle now lives wrapped in a bubble wrap bag sealed inside a Tupperware tub!

What next for Roscoe?
I continue to offer him this selection of essential oils regularly & he chooses what he needs at the time. His surgery scar has healed beautifully - with the help of green clay (but that's another story) & he's now on a "veterinary food" diet for the rest of his life. 

Incorporating essential oils into Roscoe’s recovery journey was a gentle & effective way to support his health. I hope this blog inspires you to explore holistic approaches & embrace the power of natural remedies for your beloved companions.

SAFETY FIRST – ALWAYS!

The information in this blog is based on my own experience & training. It is not a substitute for veterinary or medical advice. Please always consult a vet for a full medical diagnosis & a qualified essential oil practitioner before using oils with your pets.

If you'd like to know more...

The science & methodology of Applied Zoopharmacognosy is amazing & you can read more about it in my blog "Zoopharma-what?"

Here's the link to the full article by Cornell University:
https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments/riney-canine-health-center/canine-health-information/struvite-bladder-stones-dogs#:~:text=Also%20known%20as%20uroliths%2C%20struvite,including%20frequent%20or%20bloody%20urination.

Here's the link to buy Caroline’s book on Amazon:

https://amzn.eu/d/02Zil7B