I recently replied off-List to an FML post from Heidi who wanted info on RESCUE REMEDY for her ferrets' upcoming airplane trip. Heidi was king enough to respond that she found the information provided to be very helpful. So here's a slightly revised version for those interested in the use of flower essences (esp. RESCUE REMEDY). I've been using many different types/brands of flower essences for my personal/Shelter animals (ranging from dogs/cats/ferrets to alpacas to various exotics and wildlife--for about 10 years now. Sometimes the essences provide a subtle response; and other times dramatic results. Here's just a basic course in "Flower Essences 101": All the various flower essences are considered "vibrational" and/or "energy" remedies. Somehow the energetic qualities of the different flowers help to harmonize people and animals towards emotional and physical balance. RESCUE REMEDY--probably the most well-known--is a combination of five of the original 38 essences developed by Dr. Edward Bach (M.D.) in the 1920's. This is an excellent all-around choice to have on hand. It is used to support one through any challenge and to restore a sense of safety peace and calm. RESCUE REMEDY is made up of: - CHERRY PLUM - to help retain control - CLEMATIS - for "grounding" or focus; restoration of consciousness - IMPATIENS - to relieve pain and anxiety - ROCK ROSE - to relieve panic and fear - STAR OF BETHLEHAM - to comfort and release trauma The remedies are NOT medications and do not have to be swallowed. They simply need to make contact with the mucous membranes or enter into the animal's energy field to be effective. Two to four drops is the amount needed by either a canary or a horse as Bach Flowers are not medicines. (The Bach line of essences is sold at most health food stores.) There are many ways to administer flower remedies: First and foremost SHAKE THE BOTTLE firmly against the heel of your hand TEN TIMES **EACH** TIME BEFORE ADMINISTERING. This energizes the mixture. From the bottle you can: (A) Give two to four drops directly into the animal's mouth. Be careful not to let them lick the dropper. If they do rinse the dropper under HOT tap water for a few minutes before replacing it in the bottle. (Since many flower essences are preserved in quite a bit of brandy--ferrets usually DON'T like this direct approach. :-( But most larger animals (and humans) don't seem to mind the taste. The brandy can also be "boiled" off...and some essences can be specially ordered in non-alcoholic suspensions.) (B) Add two to four drops to water bottle. (Best method for ferrets! :-) (C) Add four drops to filtered water in a small spray bottle and spray the room; bedding; crate; car; etc. (D) Place a few drops on your own hands and pet your animal's head and ears. (E) Do some or all of the above. There is no guarantee that flower remedies will *completely* fix a problem; but you can be certain that your animal will feel better mentally and emotionally with the help of flower remedies. Some other flower essences I utilize here at my Shelter are from ANAFLORA... which has special "blends" specifically created for animals such a Pre- and Post-Surgery; Harmony; Bereavement; Relocation; etc. You might want to check out Sharon Callahan's website--just to learn a little more about another effective line of Flower Essences: http://www.anaflora.com There are many excellent books currently available on the use of flower remedies--specifically in regard to animals (and many more books on their use for humans). Two of my favorites are: "BACH FLOWER REMEDIES FOR ANIMALS" by Stefan Ball and Judy Howard published by the CW DANIEL COMPANY LTD./Essex England/UK (ISBN 1-899171-72-X) "BACH FLOWER REMEDIES FOR ANIMALS" by Helen Graham and Gregory Vlams published by Findhorn Press/Scotland/UK (ISBN 0-85207-296-1) (And YES! both books have the exact same titles....go figure! :-) A just released book "THE HOLISTIC ANIMAL HANDBOOK" has been co-written by my friend Kate Solisti-Mattelon--which includes a detailed section on the use of each of the Bach remedies for our animal friends. (Here's a "shameless plug" for me/my Shelter: Page 53 even mentions my use of flower essences for FERRETS and other animals to aid in recovery; support dying animals; and as a valuable tool in rehabilitating "fear biters". Her website (which also links to the publisher) is: http://home.earthlink.net/~solmat You can also visit the excellent website of Jean Hofve DVM a licensed veterinarian who specializes in flower essence therapy for pets: http://www.spiritessence.com For The Ferrets Barbara Ludt/DIrector "The Woodland Retreat" (NE FL Branch of the former South Florida Ferret Club & Rescue Inc.) [Posted in FML issue 3077]