Pets and Fireworks –How to Soothe Your Pets Nerves Naturally this Guy Fawkes

Pets and fireworks are usually a pretty bad mix. Using herbal remedies to help your pets at this stressful time can be hugely beneficial. Herbs for human health are becoming more and more popular each day.  Health shops are packed with herbal tonics to cleanse our bodies and build our immune system.  However finding herbs to help your pets can be slightly more tricky so you may not have even thought about using herbs for your animals health.

Guy Fawkes of course is a modern day phenomena but one in which our animals still have to get though somehow. The stress of the week leading up to Guy Fawkes can upset and terrify animals therefore we need to do what we can to protect them.

Did you that long before humans lived on this planet, wild animals survived by using plants for their healing properties.  Our modern day medicine is mainly derived from nature and scientists have spent years mimicking the active elements found in herbs.   Therefore what is available to reunite our animals with what nature intended? 

Guy Fawkes has long been a terrifying week in the life of many pets. With the constant threat of loud bangs and explosions you will find many dogs and cats cowering in complete anxiety with little means of escape.

Where-as humans might reach in the cupboard for a cup of Chamomile tea or a rescue remedy to calm the nerves, a dog or cat can also benefit from natural remedies. Natural alternatives such as calming herbs can be given to your dog or cat to provide relief from overstretched nerves. Herbs can be used as a gentle sedative, giving the animal some extra resources to survive this stressful time of year.

Herbs such as chamomile, vervain, lemon balm and skullcap have been used for centuries as calming nerve tonics. They are said to help re-balance the nervous system and can be a wonderful natural method of soothing an emotional upset or case of anxiety.

Supplementing a dog or cats’s diet with calming herbs can be an important part of a happy pets life. “Herbs can be a safe and natural way of improving your animals sense of enjoyment in life.  They are also packed with vitamins and minerals that help work towards a balanced nervous system”.

Dogs that are hyperactive or are nervous can often have an unbalanced internal system. This sometimes has an effect on the skin, behaviour and digestion.   A mixture of calming herbs will help soothe the nervous system and aid digestion.  The herbs also work by relaxing the muscles and the gut without causing the drowsy state that conventional sedatives can induce”.

Supplementing a pets diet with herbal supplements can help fitness, vitality and their general health. The active elements in herbs work by supporting the liver, digestive system, lymphatic and urinary system, thus strengthening and building the immune system.

Today’s modern dog has to cope with a number of stressful situations and Guy Fawkes is just one of them.  This can have an effect on a dog’s happiness and health and the use herbs can be an effective tool for dealing with this. Using herbs for your dog’s health can also provide life long benefits.  Auckland based vet Jim Powell from Vets’ Corner in Takanini explains; “One of the advantages of using herbal supplements is that they allow for early intervention before clinical signs become severe. Medicinal herbs are a time honored tradition and when used in conjunction with modern science have proven to be extremely beneficial to our four legged friends”. 

If you have a fearful pet around this time of year you could consider adding calming herbs to their diet. I would recommend feeding these herbs for the week or two leading up to Guy Fawkes and of course make sure your precious pet is kept safely inside with a good place to hide on the night.

Brookby Herbs “Organic Dog” range of New Zealand are a fully organically certified range of concentrated natural nutrition in liquid form and are available on-line or through selected vets and saddlery stores.

For a free on-line herbal guide “37 herbs and remedies for fabulously healthy animals” send an email to info@brookbyherbs.co.nz or visit www.brookbyherbs.co.nz

What's in Nature's Medicine Chest for Horse Allergies and Hayfever?

Does your horse suffer from horse allergies and hayfever like symptoms? Spring and summer can certainly be the time of year when such unpleasant problems can make themselves known. Just like humans, horses can suffer the horrible effects of hayfever but luckily there are some wonderful herbs available to ease the discomfort.

Hayfever in horses can often manifest as a recurrent cold like symptom with coughing and streaming eyes. It can be like a constant recurrent cold which your horse never seems to fully recover from. The lungs can become inflamed and your horse can be more susceptible to infections. Head shaking is another possible symptom. He may be tired and lethargic and generally seem quite miserable.

There are different causes to allergic respiratory problems. There are molds, spores and weeds which can be found in hay or even in the pastures during spring and summer. The body can become sensitive to these elements and cause an allergic reaction. When feeding hay it is wise to wet the hay so you are decreasing the dust element.

Your vet will be able to possibly find the cause using a  procedure that looks at the fluid and cells in the horse's lungs to see how bad the allergy is. There is also a blood test that can determine what 'in fact your horse is allergic to which in turn will make it a lot easier to treat.

From a herbal perspective the horses immune system is usually seen to be quite low. You therefore can start treatment by boosting the immune system early in the season. Herbs such as Echinacea, Garlic. Rosehips and Kelp are all great general immune boosting herbs. Echinacea and Garlic will also be helpful for fighting any infection that may be developing.

Natural expectorants can help soothe a cough and clear the passages, making breathing easier for your horse. . Herbs such as Mullein and Marshmallow are 2 such herbs . Vitamins found in herbs can help restore damaged tissues and build up the immune system also.

Natural antihistamines have an important part to play when it comes to allergies. Horseradish is a lovely effective herb and can help reduce streaming eyes and some of the uncomfortable symptoms. Also calming down an over reactive nervous system with herbs such as chamomile is a great way to go.

It is most effective to start addressing allergy problems well before the season begins. If you work on building the immune system early then being prepared with your herbal toolkit then you will find it possible to make a real difference in your horses life.

Visit this page for Brookby Herbs "Sneeze Free" formulation

Calming Herbs for Anxious or Nervous Dogs

Using herbal remedies for human health is becoming more and more popular each day. Health shops are packed with herbal tonics to cleanse our system and build our immune system. For example Echinacea and St Johns Wort are now common herbal remedies that most people are aware of.

However have you ever thought about using herbs for your animals health?

Long before humans lived on this planet, wild animals survived by using plants for their healing properties. Our modern day medicine is mainly derived from nature and scientists have spent years mimicking the active elements found in herbs. Therefore isn’t it our duty to reunite our animals diet with what nature intended?

Supplementing a dogs diet with herbal supplements can help fitness, vitality and their general health. The active elements in herbs work by supporting the liver, digestive system, lymphatic and urinary system, thus strengthening and building the immune system.

Herbs can also help with emotional problems. Dogs that are hyperactive or are nervous often have an unbalanced system. This sometimes has an effect on the skin, behaviour and digestion. Jackie Rive, owner and founder of the New Zealand company Organic Dog recommends using calming herbs such as Chamomile, Scullcap and Vervain, to help desensitise the nervous system; “These herbs reduce the anxiety or excitability that your dog may be experiencing. A mixture of calming herbs will help sooth the nervous system and aid digestion. The herbs also work by relaxing the muscles and the gut without causing the drowsy state that conventional sedatives can induce”.

Organic Dog understands that today’s dog has to cope with a number of stressful situations. Being left alone at home whilst the owner is at work or being left at boarding kennels during vacations can result in separation anxiety. This can have an effect on a dog’s happiness and health. Adjusting to a new environment or accepting a new home are also situations where a dog may act out of character because of stress.

Where-as humans might reach in the cupboard for a cup of Chamomile tea or a rescue remedy to calm the nerves or boost the immune system, a dog can also benefit from natural remedies. Supplementing a dog’s diet with calming herbs can be an important part of a happy dogs life. “Herbs are a very safe and natural way of improving your animals sense of enjoyment in life. Herbs are also packed with vitamins and minerals that also help work towards a balanced nervous system”.

Using herbs for your dog’s health can also provide life long benefits. Auckland based vet Jim Powell from Vets’ Corner in Takanini explains; “One of the advantages of using herbal supplements is that they allow for early intervention before clinical signs become severe. Medicinal herbs are a time honored tradition and when used in conjunction with modern science have proven to be extremely beneficial to our four legged friends”. 

visit www.brookbyherbs.co.nz for calming organically certified herbal extracts for dogs and cats.

Health Food for Horses!

Want to feed your horses treats which they love and are good for them too? Here are a few of nature's health foods for horses.

By Jackie Rive at www.brookbyherbs.co.nz
Helping horses and dogs live healthier and happier lives, naturally.

APPLES are the number one fruit fed to horses as a treat. Like carrots, they are a good source of Potassium, vitamin C, and Complex Carbohydrates. Not only do they taste good but they contain Flavonoids, which are naturally occurring plant compounds that have antioxidant properties.

BREWER'S YEAST is a treasure trove of vitamins and minerals. It contains Calcium, Methionine, Chromium, PABA, B Complex, and Potassium to name a few. It also contains all the essential Amino Acids needed for complete Protein utilization. Brewer's Yeast is a valuable addition to any conditioning program.

CARROTS are the number one vegetable fed to horses as a treat. They are a rich source of vitamin A which is important for healthy skin and eyes. Carrots are a good source of Potassium, vitamin C, and complex carbohydrates.

FENUGREEK seed is an appetizing herb that can be used for conditioning the body and hooves. Its rich vitamin content makes it an excellent tonic.

CALENDULA aides in maintaining a healthy digestive system. It is useful for liver conditions and so could be helpful with things like arthritis and laminitis.

CHAMOMILE is used to relieve anxiety and restlessness, while aiding digestion. Chamomile is high in B vitamins and is a bit of a cure all.

GARLIC is an amazing herb. It has been used for everything from fighting infections, cough and inflammation to aiding the circulatory system to fly control. And garlic is loaded with vitamins and minerals.

GINSENG is an adaptogen. It can strengthen both physically and mentally the ability to manage stress. Ginseng also improves resistance to infection and is loaded with vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin A, Iron, and Calcium.

HAWTHORN adds PABA, which aides in the metabolism of protein and 19 important Bioflavonoids which can improve circulation, normalize blood pressure, and cause blood vessel to become stronger and more flexible. It also adds B vitamins, Iron, and potassium.

HOPS are a soothing and relaxing herb, which can help to relieve flatulence. It adds B vitamins.

LEMON BALM is relaxing and helpful for improving the digestive system and relieving flatulence. Lemon Balm has a high mineral content including Iron, Calcium, and Potassium.

NETTLE is loaded with minerals, especially Iron. Nettle is especially helpful for improving the condition of the hair coat.

PARSLEY is a dark, leafy green herb that is high in vitamins A and C, and in iron, magnesium and potassium. It has been used as a tonic and to aid digestion. It is a good "pick me up" food.

PEPPERMINT aids digestion, has a wonderful aroma and taste. It is soothing to the stomach.

ROSEHIPS can strengthen and condition hooves and connective tissues. They are also a good tonic for liver based ailments, are high in vitamin C, and can help build a barrier against infection.
Visit www.brookbyherbs.co.nz for a full range of natural organic herbal health blends for animals.

What's in Nature's Medicine Chest for Siff Canine Joints and Dog Agility Training?

By Jackie Rive at www.brookbyherbs.co.nz
Helping horses and dogs live healthier and happier lives, naturally.


Dogs that suffer from stiff joints can benefit from herbs in many ways that possibly you hadn’t thought of before. They can provide a means of enhancing your dog's quality of life by providing a safe form of flexibility and movement in the joints, critical to a dog's enjoyment of life.

Stiff joints can be as debilitating for animals as it is for humans and maintaining a healthy body before the onset of illness is an important part of preserving quality of life.

Herbal supplements that are completely natural and without the side effects often associated with synthetic drugs are fabulous for dog agility training. These herbs are also ideal for the older dog to help keep joints supple and help create good circulation.

Devil’s Claw is a particularly popular herb for the nutritional maintenance of the musculo-skeletal system and for dogs involved in agility training this is a wonderful supportive herb.

The herbal extract can help maintain joints, muscles and connective tissue in a strong and healthy condition, and can be hugely beneficial for bith the older dog and  the competitive dog as well.

We have had some fantastic comments from people who have tried our very own 'Nature's Free Mover,' which is used for maintaining joints and muscles in a healthy condition. Based in organic cider vinegar, the product contains Devil’s Claw, White Willow, Nettle, Meadowsweet, Hawthorn, Rosehips and Kelp.

Comments from Customers

“I'm absolutely thrilled and impressed with the results of 'Nature's Free Mover'. We have an 8 year old shepherd who was in a terrible state. The vet had put him on a course of drugs for his hips and basically it was completely knocking him out at night. The poor dog was so sedated he was wetting the bed and getting very distressed. We were all terribly upset watching him go down hill with no dignity left until my daughter suggested I try your herbal extracts. We have been amazed with the results. He is a completely different dog, up playing with the cat and running around like a young pup again. I wouldn't have believed it was possible. Well done and thank you. M.Wickham, Papatoetoe, New Zealand.

My vet recommended your product as one of 2 herbal supplements that would assist in easing my dog back into enjoyment of life! - Well, I used the Nature's Free Mover in his water bowl - and he is definitely more active and happy than what he was! Not yet back up to our 1 1/2 hour walks, but we may never be again, but he is certainly bouncing after wild rabbits and chasing balls etc. Problem is, so is my elderly (20yr) cat who drinks out of the same water bowl!! Rachael Hughes

Dear Jackie, Your 'Free Mover' was of great benefit to our old dog Buffy in her last years. We thank you for your promptness in supplying us when we placed our order and for the useful tips in your newsletters. We wish your business every success and would have no hesitation in recommending your company to others pet owners. Regards Allan & Joan Collins


a healthy muscular-skeletal system and enhance dog agility

Herb Dictionary

Here are just some of the essential herbs for the maintenance of healthy canine joints and dog agility training.

Devil's Claw (root)
(Harpagophytum Procumbens)

For the maintenance of the muscular-skeletal system
Nature’s own joint remedy
Shouldn’t be fed to pregnant bitches or where gastric ulcers are present
White Willow (bark)
(Salix alba)

The origin of aspirin
Good for digestive system
Meadow Sweet (herb)
(Filipendula ulmaria)

Origin of aspirin
Neutralises the acid in the system
Nettles (aerial parts)
(Urtica dioica)

Nature’s own cleansing tonic
Rich in iron and vitamin C
Increase circulation

Visit www.brookbyherbs.co.nz for a full range of natural organic herbal health blends for animals.

Pet Owners Favouring Organic And Natural Options For Both Themselves And Their Animals

By Jackie Rive at www.brookbyherbs.co.nz
Helping horses and dogs live healthier and happier lives, naturally.

 Increasing numbers of pet owners are paying more attention to what they are feeding their dogs, cats and horses, with many turning to organic, natural and herbal alternatives.
According to recent research from the United States, spending on nutraceuticals and pet care supplements is expected to continue rising throughout 2011, with sales predicted to reach $1.6 billion by 2015, a 27% increase from 2010. The senior and joints category is especially buoyant, accounting for approximately one-third of retail sales of dog supplements, one-fifth of sales of cat supplements and almost one-third of horse supplement sales.

Brookby Herbs founder and Managing Director, Jackie Rive, believes that the growing popularity of these pet care supplements is due to an increased awareness of alternative treatment options in general.

‘More and more people throughout both New Zealand and the rest of the world are now taking an interest in using non-pharmaceutical treatment options to care for their own health as well as the health of their families,’ explains Jackie. ‘Pets are an integral part of many households so it comes as no surprise that people want to include them in their quest for healthier living.’

‘There has also been something of a backlash against unnatural processed foods recently,’ she adds. ‘Individuals are becoming much more aware of where their food and supplements come from and just how much they are contributing nutritionally. This new found attitude is crossing over to how they look after their pets and is driving purchases of natural and organic products.’

Jackie also points out that the fact that herbal supplements are gentler and often involve fewer side effects than the conventional pharmaceutical medicines is also a draw card.

‘Of course, the first step should always be to take the pet to the vets if there is anything wrong,’ says Jackie. ‘However, more veterinarians both here and overseas are now recommending herbal treatment alternatives for certain conditions. It is becoming widely accepted that they can be kinder on the organs, such as the liver and kidneys, than some of the pharmaceutical options.’

For more information on Brookby Herbs, visit http://www.brookbyherbs.co.nz/
Visit www.brookbyherbs.co.nz for a full range of natural organic herbal health blends for animals