Natural Remedies for Salivary Gland Problems in Dogs

Swelling of the salivary glands in dogs is most likely cause by a salivary mucocele. While home remedies like activated charcoal powder and castor oil may be temporary helps to a dog with swollen salivary glands, most dogs with this condition will need to be seen by a vet and surgery or needle aspiration may be needed.

What are the Symptoms of a Salivary Mucocele?

Symptoms may include pain, swelling, blood in the saliva,  and trouble with swallowing, eating, or breathing. A salivary mucocele can be caused by some kind of trauma to the mouth - a bite from another animal, an injury or blow to the face, or damage cause by something the dog has eaten or chewed upon. Conventional treatment usually include draining excess fluid and antibiotic therapy to prevent infection or deal with an infection that is already present. If the salivary duct has damage or rupture, surgery may be necessary. In most cases veterinary help will likely be required.

What Home Remedies Can I Do While Waiting to See the Vet?

• Castor oil is helpful for pain and also for inflammation.  Castor oil can be massaged into the swollen area several times a day.
• Activated charcoal is a natural antibiotic and anti-inflammatory that can be used internally for pets. An 100 pound dog could take up to a teaspoon of charcoal powder a day.  For a 25 pound dog, 1/4 teaspoon could be taken three times a day.  Activated charcoal can be bought in powder form at a health food store.  It can be mixed with yogurt or peanut butter for palatability. Capsules or tablets can be bought also, if you find that an easier way to dose your dog. One tablet or capsule is about the same as 1/5 of a teaspoon of activated charcoal powder.

Natural Remedies to Avoid with Swollen Salivary Glands

Turmeric and garlic are two popular herbs for pain, inflammation and infection.  However, these herbs have blood thinning properties and should be avoided if surgery may be needed because of the risk of increased bleeding during surgery.  Unless you know that you dog will NOT need surgery for his salivary gland problem, do not use turmeric and garlic for him.

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