We have planted in our sensory garden the following plants and herbs which aim to reduce stress and anxiety and provides additional stimulation.

• Catnip: not just for cats! This has relaxation properties and stimulates playfulness in dogs

• Chamomile: dogs suffering from anxiety or skin/stomach upsets will be attracted to this plant’s scent

• Clary sage: good for highly strung animals and those with hormonal imbalance

• Hops: a calming plant often selected by hyperactive and stressed dogs

• Lavender: helps to reduce anxiety and other nervous conditions

• Marigolds: dogs experiencing grief or emotional distress will often sniff out this plant

• Marshmallow: known to help animals with delicate stomachs

• Meadowsweet: often selected by dogs with digestive problems, arthritis and rheumatic conditions

• Mimulus: used as a remedy for animals that are nervous, timid and shy

• Mint: good for cooling properties and will often be selected by dogs who suffer from skin irritations

• Plantain: helps gastric irritation and inflammation

• Thyme: chosen by animals with bacterial infections, skin irritations and diarrhoea

• Valerian: often selected by anxious dogs for its calming effect

• Vervain: valuable for treating and nourishing nervous system disorders such as depression

• Violets: Nervous dogs or those who have recently changed home may enjoy sniffing this plant

• Yarrow: offered to animals with inflammation, urinary problems and internal and external wounds.