Pet Wellness

Winter Wellness for Dogs

Herbs, Nutrition & Lifestyle Support for Your Pet in the Colder Months

As the winter chill sets in, we naturally reach for scarves, warm teas, and comforting soups. But our furry friends also feel the shift in seasons—and they rely on us to help them stay well. Whether it’s stiff joints, dry skin, immune challenges, or just the winter blues, our dogs can benefit from some extra TLC during the cooler months.

Let’s explore how to keep your dog warm, well, and wagging with herbal support, nutrition, and daily care.

Common Winter Concerns in Dogs

• Joint stiffness or arthritis flare-ups

• Weakened immune function

• Dry, flaky skin and dull coat

• Mood or behavioural changes due to less sunlight or time outdoors

• Weight gain from reduced activity

Herbal Allies for Winter Wellness in Dogs

1. Turmeric (Curcuma longa)
A powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. Turmeric can support joint mobility, immune resilience, and overall comfort—especially when combined with black pepper for absorption.

2. Chamomile (Matricaria recutita)
Gentle and soothing for digestion, anxiety, and skin. Use as a calming tea or add powdered form to meals in small amounts.

3. Reishi & Chaga Mushrooms
Support immune function, inflammation, and overall vitality. Medicinal mushrooms are ideal for senior dogs or those with chronic health issues. Best given as a liquid extract or powder blended into food.

4. Ginger (Zingiber officinale)
Warming and stimulating for dogs prone to poor circulation or cold sensitivity. Also excellent for nausea or sluggish digestion.

5. Nettles (Urtica dioica)
Rich in minerals and supportive for skin health, joint inflammation, and overall strength. Nettles are a gentle tonic safe for most dogs.

6. Rosehips (Rosa canina)
Packed with natural vitamin C and bioflavonoids—great for immune support and collagen formation for joint tissues.

7. Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra)
In small amounts, licorice can soothe inflammation and support adrenal function—especially helpful for older or stressed dogs. Use with caution in dogs with heart conditions.

Winter Nutrition for Dogs

Just like humans, dogs thrive on warm, nourishing food during winter. Cold food from the fridge will not feel great on a cold morning!

Top Nutrition Tips:

• Warm up their food: Adding warm water, bone broth, or lightly steaming raw meals helps digestion and increases palatability.

• Include healthy fats: Omega-3s from flax, hemp, or fish oils support skin, coat, and joint health.

• Offer functional herbs: Mix in small amounts of turmeric, chamomile, or mushroom powder (ensure pet-safe and appropriately dosed- for guidance reach out!).

• Hydration still matters! Dogs can drink less in winter. Offer broths or warm herbal teas (like nettle or chamomile) to encourage fluid intake.

Mobility & Joint Care

Cold weather can stiffen joints and worsen arthritis. Support your dog’s mobility with the following:

Lifestyle Tips:

• Keep bedding warm and off cold floors

• Use coats for older or small breeds during walks

• Maintain gentle daily movement (short walks, light play)

• Avoid slippery floors—use rugs or mats to prevent joint strain

Herbal Support:

• Turmeric – anti-inflammatory for pain relief

• Devil’s Claw or Boswellia (under practitioner guidance) – stronger joint support

• Rosehip + Nettle – nourish connective tissue and reduce inflammation

• Golden Paste – popular blend of turmeric, oil, and black pepper for arthritis (in pet-safe doses)

Inner Peace offers a number of both herbal and supplemental support options for our canine companions- for more information head to the website, or please reach out.

Supplement Support for Stiff Joints & Winter Mobility

In addition to herbal allies, the following supplements can offer real benefits for dogs dealing with stiff joints, age-related mobility issues, or inflammation worsened by cold weather:

1. Collagen (Type II or Hydrolyzed Collagen)

Collagen provides structural support to connective tissues, cartilage, and joints. It's especially helpful for:

• Supporting joint elasticity and cushioning

• Promoting healthy skin and coat

• Enhancing mobility in aging dogs

Tip: Add hydrolyzed collagen to meals (choose dog-specific products or vet-approved human-grade powders). Find some here in Inner Peace

2. Hyaluronic Acid

Naturally present in joint fluid, hyaluronic acid helps maintain joint lubrication and shock absorption.
Often combined with collagen, MSM, or glucosamine for more complete joint formulas.

3. Omega-3 Fatty Acids (EPA/DHA)

Sourced from fish oil or algae, omega-3s:

• Reduce joint inflammation

• Support skin and coat health

• Help regulate immune function

Tip: Look for pet-safe fish oil, krill oil, or hemp seed oil (never essential oils).

4. MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane)

A natural sulfur compound that:

• Reduces inflammation and oxidative damage

• Supports connective tissue healing

• Works well alongside glucosamine/chondroitin

5. Green-Lipped Mussel (Perna canaliculus)

A whole food source of joint-supportive compounds including:

• Omega-3s

• Glycosaminoglycans (like glucosamine)

• Antioxidants

Great for pain relief and restoring ease of movement—especially in senior dogs.

Combining Herbs + Supplements

Herbal remedies like turmeric, nettle, rosehip, and reishi offer inflammation relief and tissue repair, while nutritional supplements like collagen, MSM, and omega-3s build structure and resilience from the inside out.

Together, they create a complete winter joint care plan. Reach out for support and guidance on herb and supplement options available.

Winter Mood & Immune Boosting Rituals

• Sunshine Therapy: Let them bask in the winter sun for warmth and natural vitamin D

• Massage or TTouch: Helps circulation, reduces anxiety, and improves mobility

• Daily herbal tonics: Like a medicinal mushroom blend or immunity support tincture

Final Tips for Winter Pet Wellness

• Keep pets dry, especially after rain or dew—damp fur can chill fast

• Watch for signs of joint pain: reluctance to jump, stiffness, or irritability

• Make their rest space extra cosy: warm beds, blankets, and a safe, draft-free spot

• Maintain regular vet check-ups, especially for senior dogs in winter

Suggested Winter Wellness Additions from the Apothecary:

• Herbal Support for Dogs – general immune and vitality blend

• Soothe & Calm – nervous system and stress support for the winter blues

• Chaga or Reishi Liquid Extract – immune boosting and anti-inflammatory

• Skin & Coat Support – for dryness, shedding, and winter itch

• Golden Paste or Turmeric powder – gentle joint care

Final thoughts

Winter is a time to slow down, nurture deeply, and stay warm—our dogs deserve the same care and comfort. With the right herbs, nourishment, and attention, we can help them move through winter with ease and vitality.

To help support your dog during Winter, pop over here and check out what's available.

Can't find what you're looking for? Please don't hesitate to get in touch here.

We offer custom blends and consultations so everyone is looked after!

Reference List – Winter Wellness for Dogs

1. Tilford, G., & Wulff-Tilford, M. (2009). Herbs for Pets: The Natural Way to Enhance Your Pet's Life. BowTie Press.
   – Comprehensive guide to safe herbal use for dogs, including turmeric, chamomile, ginger, and mushrooms.

2. Wynn, S.G., & Fougere, B. (2007). Veterinary Herbal Medicine. Elsevier Health Sciences.
   – Evidence-based herbal support for canine immune, joint, and nervous system health.

3. White, K. (2017). “Golden Paste for Dogs: How Turmeric Can Help Your Pet.” Dogs Naturally Magazine.
   – Dosage and safety info for turmeric use in pets.

4. Swanson, K.S., et al. (2013). “Nutritional sustainability of pet foods.” Advances in Nutrition, 4(2), 141–150.
   – Nutritional foundations for seasonal dietary adjustments in pets.

5. National Research Council. (2006). Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press.
   – Guidelines for essential nutrient support in different climates and life stages.

6. Veterinary Herbalist Clinical Notes (2020). Unpublished case observations of joint and mobility support with rosehip, nettle, and medicinal mushrooms in aging dogs.

7. Smith, A. (2021). “Reishi & Chaga for Pets: Natural Immune Support.” Herbal Academy Blog.
   – Overview of functional mushrooms in veterinary wellness.

8. Canine Arthritis Management (UK): www.caninearthritis.co.uk
   – Supportive care guidelines and movement tips for dogs with joint issues.

From ancient forests to modern holistic clinics, medicinal mushrooms have long been used to support immunity, resilience, and long life. And it’s not just humans who benefit from these fungal powerhouses — our dogs can too.

This unique blend of six organic medicinal mushrooms (Reishi, Chaga, Cordyceps, Lion’s Mane, Turkey Tail, and Maitake) offers a deeply nourishing, immune-loving, brain-supportive, and energy-balancing tonic for your four-legged friends.

What’s in the Mix?

Each mushroom in this 20:1 extract blend has been carefully selected for its individual gifts:

Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)

The “Mushroom of Immortality” – a powerful adaptogen that helps calm inflammation, balance the immune system, and soothe allergic responses. Reishi is also known to support liver health and the nervous system.

Chaga (Inonotus obliquus)

Harvested from birch trees, Chaga is a rich source of antioxidants. It supports immune strength, reduces oxidative stress, and is a gentle ally for long-term health and chronic inflammatory conditions.

Cordyceps (Cordyceps militaris)

A natural energy booster and respiratory tonic. Cordyceps helps dogs with low stamina, fatigue, or recovering from illness. It also supports adrenal balance and healthy stress response.

Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus)

Best known for its nootropic effects, Lion’s Mane supports brain and nerve health. In dogs, it’s a helpful ally for aging, anxiety, and nervous system recovery.

Turkey Tail (Coriolus versicolor)

One of the most researched mushrooms for cancer and immune modulation. Turkey Tail is rich in beta-glucans and polysaccharides that help detect and eliminate abnormal cells while boosting natural defences.

Maitake (Grifola frondosa)

A deeply nourishing mushroom for metabolism, insulin sensitivity, and immune balance. Maitake is ideal for older or overweight dogs, or those dealing with chronic inflammation.

Benefits of This Blend for Dogs:

• Strengthens immune defence and resilience
• Supports cognitive and nervous system function
• Encourages calm energy and stamina
• Helps manage inflammation, allergies, and chronic disease
• Complements cancer therapy and recovery plans
• Supports healthy aging and overall vitality

How to Use

Start slow and build up gradually over a week. Best given with food.

You can mix the powder into wet food, bone broth, or herbal golden paste.

Notes & Safety:

• Use caution in dogs on immunosuppressive medication.
• Ensure you're using high-quality extracts with no fillers or grains.
• Watch for mild digestive changes during the first few days.

Final Thoughts:

This medicinal mushroom blend isn’t just trendy — it’s a deeply rooted tradition of healing. From immune modulation to brain and body support, these fungi provide gentle, powerful care. Whether you’re supporting a senior dog, a pup with chronic illness, or simply building wellness from the ground up, this is a beautiful addition to your dog’s holistic health toolkit.

Find our blend here!

Inspired by traditional herbal wisdom. Written with love by Inner Peace Holistic Herbal Therapy. 

Natural Herbal Support for Dog Ear Infections

A holistic guide for soothing your pup’s ears naturally

Ear infections are one of the most common complaints dog owners face—and for good reason. From constant scratching and head shaking to inflamed, smelly ears, these infections can make life miserable for your furry friend. While traditional treatments have their place, there’s growing interest in natural approaches that not only relieve symptoms but also address the root causes of recurring issues.

This blog explores how to identify the signs of ear infections in dogs, the types you may encounter, and how herbs and holistic strategies—including Saccharomyces boulardii—can help support healing and long-term ear health.

Recognizing Dog Ear Infection Symptoms

Early detection is key. Common signs of ear infections include:

• Frequent scratching or pawing at the ears

• Head shaking

• Redness, warmth, or swelling

• Waxy or dark discharge

• Foul, yeasty odour

• Crusting or scabs in or around the ear

In more serious cases, dogs may show signs like disorientation, head tilting, balance issues, or facial drooping. These may indicate that the infection has reached the middle or inner ear, and you should seek veterinary care immediately.

Types of Canine Ear Infections

Understanding the type of infection helps guide treatment:

• Otitis Externa: Involves the outer ear canal; often triggered by moisture, wax buildup, or allergens.

• Otitis Media: Affects the middle ear, typically due to bacteria or yeast spreading inward.

• Otitis Interna: Involves the inner ear and can affect balance and neurological function—this is a medical emergency.

Herbal Remedies for Natural Ear Support

For mild cases or maintenance between flare-ups, these herbal allies can bring relief:

Topical Herbal Soothers

• Calendula (Calendula officinalis): Antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory. Use 5–10 drops of tincture in warm water to rinse the ears.

• Green Tea: Cools and calms inflammation. Brew two bags and let it cool before using it as a gentle rinse.

• Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV): Balances ear flora and clears wax. Mix 1:1 with filtered water and use externally (only if the skin is intact).

Herbal Oils & Drops

• Mullein and Garlic Oil: Infused in olive oil, these herbs provide antimicrobial and soothing support. Apply a few warmed drops to the ear canal daily.

• Oregano Oil (diluted): Antibacterial and antifungal. Dilute one drop in a tablespoon of aloe vera juice or carrier oil.

• Grapefruit Seed Extract (GSE): Natural antimicrobial. Add 10 drops to 30ml of water or aloe for use as a rinse.

For an internal herbal medicine blend that addresses Yeast from the inside and cleans the blood, pop over here

And for an external topical to help eliminate a yeast infection pop over here. This is a great topical treatment to have on hand at the first sign of infection. 

Saccharomyces boulardii: Gut-Ear Connection

One of the most overlooked aspects of ear infections is the gut-immune connection. A healthy gut plays a critical role in preventing recurring infections, including those in the ears.

Saccharomyces boulardii is a beneficial, non-colonizing yeast used to support gut health. It works by:

• Balancing the gut microbiome

• Reducing inflammation

• Supporting the immune system

• Helping control yeast overgrowth (especially Candida species)

Adding this probiotic to your dog’s daily regimen can help address one of the root contributors to chronic ear issues—an imbalanced microbiome. It’s especially helpful if your dog has had antibiotics or a high-starch diet.

Inner Peace stocks the CanineCeuticals Pure SB which is a pure form of Saccharomyces boulardii - You can find it here 

Preventing Future Infections Naturally

Prevention is just as important as treatment. Try incorporating these tips:

• Limit starchy foods: Yeast thrives on sugar and starch. Reduce kibble or switch to fresh, low-carb meals.

• Boost gut health: Include probiotics, prebiotics, and S. boulardii regularly.

• Avoid chemical irritants: Skip perfumed cleaners, pesticides, and unnecessary meds where possible.

• Use gentle ear cleansers sparingly: Only clean ears when needed and use herbal or natural options.

• Check for allergies: Environmental or food intolerances can trigger chronic inflammation.

Homeopathy and Energetic Herbal Support

Homeopathic remedies can also offer relief, especially for recurring or emotionally-sensitive dogs:

• Hepar sulphuris: For painful, touch-sensitive ears

• Belladonna: Sudden inflammation and heat

• Pulsatilla: Thick yellow discharge in clingy or emotional dogs

Consult with a holistic vet or homeopath for best results.

Final Thoughts

Herbal support can be a gentle yet powerful ally in managing and preventing dog ear infections. By supporting the body holistically—through herbs, diet, gut health, and environmental awareness—you give your pup the best chance at lasting wellness.

References & Further Reading

1. Wynn, S.G., & Fougere, B.J. (2007). Veterinary Herbal Medicine. Mosby Elsevier.

2. Tilford, G., & Wulff-Tilford, M. (2009). Herbs for Pets: The Natural Way to Enhance Your Pet’s Life. i-5 Publishing.

3. Pilla, R., & Suchodolski, J.S. (2020). The role of the canine gut microbiome and probiotics in health and disease. Veterinary Sciences, 7(3), 72.

4. White, G. (2014). The Energetics of Western Herbs: A Materia Medica Integrating Western and Chinese Traditions.

5. National Research Council. (2006). Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press.

6. Dogs Naturally Magazine - Herbal Ear Infection Remedies

7. AHVMA - American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association

Our Summer weather, in the Southern Hemisphere has finally started to kick in. We are always pretty much going to get these hot days, as it is Summer Down Under, but we are not always that prepared for it. Especially when it comes to our pets.

Our pets can really suffer in the summer heat and as owners we need to make sure we have their back and do what we can to make sure they are safe and kept cool during the extreme temperatures. As owners, we have a responsibility to ensure that we provide what our pets need to stay cool and need to remain vigilant in offering our pets ample shade, cool areas and plenty of clean, cool drinking water.

Our dogs particularly can feel the heat and can end up suffering from heat exhaustion and/ or heatstroke, which can make them really quite ill, or even cause them to die. Dogs can not sweat to cool themselves, and they pant heavily in the attempt to cool, however this leads to the evaporation of water from the tongue which then leads to dehydration.

Heat exhaustion is characterized by fatigue and weakness but may also include vomiting and diarrhoea. In the heat exhaustion phase, the pet will likely still have a normal or slightly elevated temperature and dehydration.

Heatstroke is the most severe condition in a spectrum of heat-related illnesses. The first sign a dog may be developing heat-induced illness is typically heat cramps, characterized by muscle spasms.

The transition from heat exhaustion to heatstroke is central nervous system signs such as disorientation or seizures, an elevated temperature, and often, multiple organ dysfunction. Heatstroke results from an inability of the body to cool down. This results in damage to the tissues of the body (inflammation), which leads to decreased blood flow to the organs and can ultimately cause organ damage and failure.

Older pets, pets with thick coats, those with short noses and pets adapted to cooler climates are particularly susceptible to the heat.

Some signs of heat distressed pets can be some of the following:

• Excessive panting
• Reddened gums/mucous membranes
• Tachycardia (fast heart rate)
• Dehydration 
• Head tilt: This is often an indication of heat exhaustion, but it has also been seen in dogs who have gone through heat stroke. The head tilt is the result of excess fluid build up in the head and neck and does not necessarily indicate that the dog is actually experiencing heat stroke.
• Elevated temperature 
• Vomiting (with or without blood) 
• Diarrhoea (with or without blood)
• Disorientation/stumbling
• Weakness/collapse
• Seizures/death 

Heat stroke can occur very quickly and is an absolute medical emergency and pet parents need to get their animals to the nearest vet clinic immediately.

If your pet becomes heat stressed, it is critical to cool them down. You can do this by following this technique: When cooling your pet, never use ice, as it can increase the risk of shock (drop in blood pressure, further damage to organs) and even cause hypothermia. Try to move your pet to a cool or shaded area with a fan if possible. Wet your dog with room temperature water and drape wet towels on the back of the dog during transportation to the hospital.  

Some simple tips to keep our dogs and cats cool:

• Ensure water bowls are not stainless steel and keep them out of direct sunlight. Add a few extra drinking areas in case one gets knocked over, cats and dogs also love flowing water from pet fountains.
• Keep dog beds and cat perches out of the sun.
• Create cool zones, hose down under trees, and create ample shaded areas.
• Do not leave your pet in the car, even for a few minutes. Animals on utes need extra consideration- the tray can become very hot very quickly and can lead to burnt paws. Dogs transported in dog boxes need air flow so the sides should be mesh and they need a cover. Again it can become very hot very quickly in a metal cage. The ute needs to have an insulating material to avoid the dogs coming in direct contact with the metal surface. Avoid transporting them this way if possible on hot days.
• Only exercise your pet during the cooler parts of the day- early morning or late evening.
• If your pet is exhibiting any symptoms of heatstroke seek veterinary treatment quickly.
• Allow your pet inside to lay on the bathroom and kitchen floors. Plus; they will also benefit from a fan or the air-conditioning.
• If it’s too hot for a run at the dog park, consider teaching your pet a new trick. Flexing their minds can be just as beneficial as a big run.
• Consider clipping thick-coated breeds.
• If your dog is outside, a shallow container of water (a child's paddle pool or 'clam shell') they can sit or lie in will help them cool down.
• If you know it is going to be a hot day and you will be at work, close the blinds in one or two rooms to keep the sun out. This will help the rooms to stay cooler.
• Animals can get sunburned too. Protect hairless and light-coated dogs and white cats with sunscreen when your animal will be outside in the sun for an extended period of time. Put sunscreen or zinc on exposed areas of pink skin (ear tips and noses).

We can all enjoy the summer a little better if we take care and look after our furriest family members!

References:

PetMD https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/systemic/heatstroke-dogs

Pet Insurance Australia https://www.petinsuranceaustralia.com.au/heatstroke-in-pets

Animal Welfare Victoria https://agriculture.vic.gov.au/livestock-and-animals/animal-welfare-victoria/dogs/health/heat-and-pets

CIVT Animal First Aid