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.