White Willow Bark for Dogs

Willow bark is known as the Nature's aspirin but without the side-effects for dogs. It offers many benefits to dogs so find out more in this article. 

Today I'm really excited to share about willow bark for your dog. This is the time of the year when it gets really cold and many dogs suffer from stiffness, arthritis, joint pains, back pains or they are just feeling tired, sluggish or feverish. 


This is where I'm excited to share the benefits of willow bark for your dog. Did you know that aspirin is made from willow bark?! Willow bark is one of those herbs that can be safely used for dogs in conditions listed above and since it is winter time and since you might have a dog with these conditions or your dog might be a senior dog, I want to help you with applying natural, holistic solutions for your dog's care. 


So, what are the benefits of white willow bark? - 


- willow bark contains an active compound called salicin which is the reason for its anti-inflammatory and pain relieving properties. 


- white willow bark can also be used when your dog has fever 


- just like aspirin, white willow bark has also been used as a blood thinner and is an effective herb for dogs that have heart conditions but consultation with an integrative vet is necessary. 


- for pain relieving benefits, you may just buy willow bark cream or gel and use it topically instead of giving your dog internally. So look online or any herbal store and find a high quality pain relieving cream made of willow bark extract and that might be the best option for you and your pet. 


- white willow bark is also used for dogs that have had some injury or surgery but just like you would check with your vet before giving aspirin, make sure to check with your vet in this case too. 


-More than anything, one of the greatest benefits this herb offers us is that unlike aspirin, it will not cause internal bleeding in your dog and it's one of the safest herbs to give to your dog. 


White willow bark has been used for centuries in relieving pain and inflammation in dogs and also for reducing fever. Willow bark is considered as an immune boosting herb so give it a try next time your pet has any of the conditions listed above. 


Dosage -

The generally listed dosage for white willow bark for dogs is 5 to 10 mg per pound of body weight, 1 to 2 times a day but even then I suggest going on a lower dose than this for your dog and only trying it once a day for few days or maybe one week and then see how your dog reacts... 


If there are no related reactions, no nausea, vomiting, nothing...then you may proceed to a higher dose.


Notes -


Some side effects of giving willow bark maybe allergic reactions, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.


Do NOT use Willow bark on nursing or pregnant dogs or young puppies. 


Do NOT use willow bark if your dog has liver or kidney issues, diabetes, gastrointestinal issues, breathing issues or any bleeding or ulcer issues. 


Remember that willow bark is just like aspirin so it may interfere with blood thinners, heart medicines, diuretics, NSAIDs, diabetes medicines and perhaps more so it is always best to consult a vet if you plan on giving willow bark to your dog.