Crafting Calm: DIY Dog Calming Aids For Your Canine Friends

Stress and anxiety are common problems that affect both humans and pets.

While there are many medications and treatments available, some pet owners prefer to use natural remedies to help their furry friends relax.

DIY calming aids are a great way to provide your pet with a sense of calm and comfort without resorting to medication.

In this article, we will explore some safe and effective DIY calming aids that you can make at home.

DIY Calming Treats

One of the easiest DIY calming aids to make at home is calming treats.

These treats are made with safe ingredients that can help to soothe your pet’s nerves and promote relaxation.

Some of the best ingredients to use in calming treats include:

• Chamomile: Chamomile is a natural sedative that can help to calm your pet’s nerves and promote relaxation.
• Valerian root: Valerian root is another natural sedative that can help to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
• Lavender: Lavender is a calming scent that can help to reduce stress and anxiety in both humans and pets.

Recipe ideas

Here are some recipe ideas for DIY calming treats:

Chamomile and honey treats

Mix 1 cup of flour, 1/4 cup of chamomile tea, 1/4 cup of honey, and 1/4 cup of water.

Roll out the dough and cut into small shapes. Bake at 350 degrees for 15-20 minutes.

Valerian root and peanut butter treats

Mix 1 cup of flour, 1/4 cup of valerian root tea, 1/4 cup of peanut butter, and 1/4 cup of water.

Roll out the dough and cut into small shapes. Bake at 350 degrees for 15-20 minutes.

Lavender and pumpkin treats

Mix 1 cup of flour, 1/4 cup of dried lavender, 1/4 cup of canned pumpkin, and 1/4 cup of water.

Roll out the dough and cut into small shapes.

Bake at 350 degrees for 15-20 minutes.

Safe Ingredients

When making DIY calming treats, it is important to use safe ingredients.

Some ingredients that should be avoided include:

• Xylitol: Xylitol is a sugar substitute that is toxic to dogs and can cause seizures and liver failure.
• Chocolate: Chocolate is toxic to dogs and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and seizures.
• Onions and garlic: Onions and garlic can cause anemia in dogs and cats.

DIY Calming Spray

Another DIY calming aid that you can make at home is a calming spray.

Calming sprays are made with essential oils that can help to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.

Some of the best essential oils to use in calming sprays include:

• Lavender: Lavender is a calming scent that can help to reduce stress and anxiety.
• Frankincense: Frankincense is a grounding scent that can help to promote relaxation.
• Ylang-ylang: Ylang-ylang is a floral scent that can help to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.

Recipe ideas

Here are some recipe ideas for DIY calming sprays:

Lavender and chamomile spray

Ingredients

• 1 cup distilled water
• 1/4 cup witch hazel
• 10 drops of lavender essential oil
• 10 drops of chamomile essential oil

Instructions

• In a clean spray bottle, combine 1 cup of distilled water and 1/4 cup of witch hazel.
• Add 10 drops each of lavender and chamomile essential oils to the mixture.
• Secure the bottle cap tightly and shake well to ensure proper blending.
• Spritz the calming spray onto your pet’s bedding or into the air for a soothing effect.

Explanation

Lavender and chamomile are renowned for their calming properties.

Lavender, with its gentle floral scent, helps reduce stress and anxiety, while chamomile offers relaxation and promotes better sleep.

Witch hazel acts as a natural stabilizer, helping the essential oils disperse evenly in the water.

Frankincense and Bergamot Spray:

Ingredients

• 1 cup distilled water
• 1/4 cup witch hazel
• 10 drops of frankincense essential oil
• 10 drops of bergamot essential oil

Instructions

• Combine 1 cup of distilled water and 1/4 cup of witch hazel in a spray bottle.
• Add 10 drops each of frankincense and bergamot essential oils to the mixture.
• Seal the bottle and shake thoroughly for a well-mixed calming spray.
• Spritz onto your pet’s bedding or into the air for a tranquil atmosphere.

Explanation

Frankincense and bergamot complement each other beautifully.

Frankincense is known for its grounding and centering qualities, while bergamot provides a fresh and uplifting aroma.

Together, they create a harmonious blend that can help alleviate tension and create a peaceful environment.

Ylang-ylang and sweet orange spray

Ingredients

• 1 cup distilled water
• 1/4 cup witch hazel
• 10 drops ylang-ylang essential oil
• 10 drops of sweet orange essential oil

Instructions

• In a spray bottle, combine 1 cup of distilled water and 1/4 cup of witch hazel.
• Add 10 drops each of ylang-ylang and sweet orange essential oils.
• Secure the bottle cap and shake well to ensure proper mixing.
• Spritz the calming spray on your pet’s bedding or in the air for a serene atmosphere.

Explanation

Ylang-ylang brings a sweet, floral note that promotes relaxation, while sweet orange adds a citrusy and uplifting touch.

This combination creates a pleasant aroma that can help reduce stress and create a tranquil space for your pet.

DIY Snuffle Mats

Snuffle mats are a fantastic and simple DIY project that can provide your pet with both mental stimulation and relaxation.

These mats engage your pet’s natural foraging instincts, making mealtime or treat-seeking an enriching experience.

Let’s delve into the step-by-step process of creating a snuffle mat using readily available materials.

Materials needed

• Fleece fabric
• Scissors
• Ruler
• Pen or marker
• Rubber mat or non-slip shelf liner

Instructions

Prepare the fleece strips

• Lay out your fleece fabric on a flat surface.
• Using a ruler and pen or marker, measure and mark strips that are 1 inch wide and 4 inches long.
• Cut along the marked lines to create the fleece strips.

Cut the rubber mat or liner

• Decide on the size you want for your snuffle mat.
• Cut the rubber mat or non-slip shelf liner to match the desired dimensions. This will serve as the base for your snuffle mat.

Tie the fleece strips

• Take each fleece strip and fold it in half.
• With the rubber mat or liner in front of you, loop the folded end of the fleece strip around the mat or liner.
• Pull the loose ends of the strip through the loop, creating a knot. Ensure the knots are tied tightly to secure the fleece in place.
• Continue tying the fleece strips across the entire surface of the mat, creating a textured and engaging surface.

Fill the snuffle mat

• Once you’ve securely attached all the fleece strips, flip the mat over to reveal the textured side.
• Sprinkle your pet’s favorite treats or kibble into the nooks and crannies created by the tied fleece strips.

DIY Den/Safe Space

Creating a den or safe space for your pet can help to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.

To create a den or safe space, you will need:

Materials Needed

• A crate or enclosed space
• Soft bedding
• Toys or chew treats

Instructions

Choose the ideal location

• Identify a quiet and comfortable area in your home where your pet can have a sense of privacy and tranquility.
• Consider spaces away from high-traffic areas and noise, ensuring it is a spot where your pet can retreat without disturbances.

Select a crate or enclosed space

• Choose a crate or enclosed space that is appropriate for your pet’s size and preferences.
• Ensure the crate has proper ventilation and is large enough for your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.

Add soft bedding

• Line the interior of the crate or enclosed space with soft and comfortable bedding.
• Choose materials that are easy to clean and maintain, such as machine-washable blankets or pet-specific cushions.
• Creating a plush environment enhances the coziness of the den, providing a warm and inviting retreat for your pet.

Incorporate toys or chew treats

• Place your pet’s favorite toys or chew treats inside the crate or enclosed space.
• Select items that provide mental stimulation and comfort, helping to distract and entertain your pet while they are in their safe space.
• Rotating toys periodically can keep your pet engaged and prevent boredom.

Conclusion

Crafting your own calming aids is a secure and efficient approach to assist your pet in finding relaxation and easing anxiety.

Utilizing safe ingredients and adhering to the given recipes and instructions empowers you to fashion calming treats, sprays, snuffle mats, and safe spaces tailored to your furry friend’s needs.

Prioritize consulting with your veterinarian before introducing any new treatments or remedies to ensure the well-being of your pet.

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