Is that an orange? A lemon? No wait, it is Bergamot!

There are two lines of thought regarding whether dogs can eat bergamot. Some experts believe that Bergamot orange is downright toxic to dogs. Others believe that bergamot essential oil is a dog-safe oil.

If you are a fan of Earl Grey tea, then you probably know what bergamot is. You might have even diffused its essential oil to enhance and uplift your mood. But is it safe to use around dogs?

Dogs could benefit from bergamot oil diffused using an aromatherapy diffuser. It is calming and relaxing and may help relieve stress and anxiety in canines. It could help your dog sleep better. You could even make a cold or hot compress with a few drops of bergamot oil to relieve aching joints in senior dogs.

But, as a precaution, please do not allow your dog to ingest bergamot oil, fruit, or leaves. When taken in large quantities, the compounds in bergamot oil could result in toxicity in dogs. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, skin irritation, depression, and photosensitivity.

So let us play it safe and avoid using bergamot on or near our dogs.

To ensure your pet will live a long and healthy life, it is always a good idea to invest in pet health insurance. Preparing for the unexpected guarantees money is never an issue in keeping you pup healthy.