Colloidal Silver for Dogs – LIFE WITH DOGS

Colloidal silver is a natural “antibiotic” that is made up of small particles of silver suspended in a liquid solution. It is a supplement that has been around for centuries and was originally used by the Romans and Greeks to help keep themselves healthy with the earliest note of it is in 400BC by Hippocrates. Many also feel this treatment can apply to our dogs as well. Colloidal silver is not as widely known as the many other medications prescribed by your pup’s veterinarian but is one that has been used for generations.

It is proposed that a colloidal silver dosage supports a dog’s health by killing various bacteria, viruses, fungi, and aiding ear infections, skin irritations, and even a sore throat within their body with submicroscopic pieces of silver that are so small they penetrate the cells and kill pathogens while improving their health and well-being. It is said to damage a pathogen’s ability to metabolize oxygen and once it has no oxygen, then the bacteria, virus, and fungi die but the healthy tissue remains. The dead pathogens are then eliminated by your dog’s immune system. Colloidal silver can be used to treat, prevent, and manage many conditions such as:

• Lyme disease
• Coughs
• Viral, bacterial, and fungal infections
• Digestive issues
• Fevers
• Thyroid disorders
• Parasitic infestations
• Skin issues
• Yeast infections
• Sore throats

Another benefit your dog can get from colloidal silver is that it is also said to be a natural antibiotic. Because it is said to kill disease-causing microbes, it creates its antibiotic tendencies. The difference, when compared to other man-made antibiotics, is that it does not encourage bacteria to mutate and create antibiotic resistant strains. When used in this capacity it can treat:

• Wounds
• Rashes
• Burns
• Skin infections (ringworm)
• Inflamed eyes
• Ear infections
• Allergies
• Eye infections

If your veterinarian is supportive of you using colloidal silver for your pup, it may be beneficial to try it. It’s a more natural treatment that takes man-made drugs out of the mix. It can also be used to support regular treatment of medical issues to add a holistic approach giving your pooch the best of both worlds.

Why Would My Dog Need Colloidal Silver?

Your dog may use colloidal silver as both a supplemental medicine as well as one that is helpful for non-emergency treatments. This drug is considered natural and basically safe assuming you are using it with a veterinarians knowledge and input. It is an ancient way of treating many illnesses, but you must be mindful that it is not a scientifically proven way of taking care of all medical issues. Used carefully and with proper knowledge, this product could be beneficial to your pet.

When Shouldn’t My Dog Take Colloidal Silver?

Dogs should not be looking for a quick fix of serious medical issues from colloidal silver. Serious issues need to be looked at an overseen by your veterinarian. You do not want to cause undue pain or discomfort for your pet while waiting for colloidal silver to work. If your dog is suffering or is not showing any improvement, then they should be moving away from colloidal silver treatment as stand-alone support.

How Does My Dog Take Colloidal Silver?

Colloidal silver comes in many forms. Dosage should be discussed your dog’s veterinarian. If they are positive about the product then you have many different options to chose from. There is oral, topical, drops or inhalant that will meet all the various health issues it can be applied to. Oral dosing is suggested to be between five to ten drops, two to three times per day. Topical is used to clean out cuts and sores and can also be used in a spray or on a compress several times a day. Topical can also be mixed with corn starch, flour or baby powder to make an ointment. As for drops, it is suggested that they are put in ears and eyes three times per day for up to ten days with an eyedropper. This is similar to regular antibiotics. The final form it comes in is an inhalant. Using it in a nebulizer at least three times per week, 15 minutes at a time is said to be helpful as well.

If you are just using colloidal silver for health maintenance, then some people put it in their dogs drinking water, so it is just a small presence all day. The following amounts are suggested:

• Small-breed dogs should receive 10 ml, daily
• Medium-sized dogs should receive 15 ml, daily
• Large dogs may receive 20 ml, daily

If your dog is showing symptoms of non-serious illness, use the following dose outline:

• Small breed dogs should receive 10 ml, twice daily
• Medium-sized dogs should receive 30 ml, twice daily
• Large-breed dogs may receive 40 to 50 ml, twice daily

Colloidal Silver Side Effects in Dogs

Most of the time, colloidal silver is safe for dogs. However, it must be given in proper amounts and in consultation with your dog’s veterinarian. Colloidal silver administered in incorrect or excessive doses can cause:

Owners also need to be aware of the possible effects of:

• Weight loss
• Hypoactivity
• Altered liver enzymes
• Altered blood values
• Enlarged heart
• Anorexia
• Weakness
• Anemia

Like any pet owner, it’s important not only to know the possible side effects of a new supplement. Make sure to talk to your veterinarian about issues you see arising and or are concerned about. A veterinary checkup is important if your dog develops new symptoms or is not improving.

Conclusion

Colloidal silver is not an FDA approved and is a holistic approach to treatment. There are limited studies with either neutral or untested outcomes. This treatment should only be used with your veterinarian involved in your pup’s treatment plan. This product is most beneficial as a supplement to other positive lifestyle choices with your pup or treatment of non-emergency medical issues. Seek help for your pet if you think he has developed new issues or isn’t improving from the original ones.