Benefits of salt therapy for animals

Salt therapy, also known as halotherapy, is a treatment that involves exposure to dry salt particles in a controlled environment such as a salt room. While most studies and anecdotal evidence have focused on human benefits, there are emerging reports that salt therapy can also be beneficial for animals too, particularly those with respiratory issues or skin conditions. Here are some of the proven or observed benefits of salt therapy for animals:

Respiratory Health Improvement
Salt therapy is known to support respiratory health by helping to clear mucus and reduce inflammation in the airways. In animals with conditions like asthma, bronchitis, pneumonia, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), halotherapy can help improve lung function and breathing. Pets with respiratory issues such as dogs with kennel cough, feline asthma, or horses with heaves or COPD may experience relief after salt therapy.

Skin and Coat Health
Salt therapy can also benefit animals with dermatological issues, such as allergies, eczema, hot spots, fungal infections, sweet itch and even ear infections. The antimicrobial properties of salt may help cleanse the skin, reducing itching, inflammation, and irritation. Additionally, the salt’s ability to balance pH levels and promote natural healing can improve coat quality. Animals with itchy skin or chronic skin conditions may experience a reduction in symptoms after regular salt therapy sessions.

Stress Reduction and Relaxation
Like humans, animals experience stress, anxiety, and behavioural issues. Salt therapy has a calming effect due to the ionisation of the air, which is thought to reduce stress hormones and induce relaxation. This can be particularly helpful for pets suffering from separation anxiety, travel anxiety, or stress due to loud noises or environmental changes. Regular exposure to salt therapy may help calm nervous or anxious animals, improving their overall well-being and behaviour.

Immune System Support
Salt therapy can have an immune-boosting effect by reducing inflammation and promoting detoxification. It may help animals with weakened immune systems by improving their overall health and resistance to infections. For animals with chronic health conditions or those recovering from illness, salt therapy may offer additional support in strengthening their immune defences. Pets with compromised immune systems, such as those undergoing cancer treatments or with chronic autoimmune diseases, may benefit from the anti-inflammatory and detoxifying effects of salt therapy.

General Detoxification
The fine salt particles in the air are believed to help remove toxins and pollutants from the body. In animals, salt therapy may help in the recovery from illness and detoxification of the respiratory and lymphatic systems. This can be particularly useful for animals living in urban or polluted environments or those with exposure to chemicals or allergens.

Improved Circulation
There is some evidence to suggest that salt therapy can stimulate better blood flow and circulation. This could be especially beneficial for animals with joint problems or those that are elderly. Improved circulation may help reduce symptoms of arthritis and promote faster healing. Animals with joint pain, inflammation, or reduced mobility may find relief from symptoms with regular salt therapy.

Post-surgery Recovery
For animals recovering from surgery or trauma, salt therapy may accelerate healing by improving oxygen delivery to tissues and reducing inflammation. The therapy’s ability to promote relaxation and alleviate pain could contribute to a smoother recovery process. Pets recovering from surgery may experience quicker healing, reduced swelling, and less discomfort when exposed to salt therapy.

Evidence & Studies
While the benefits mentioned above are largely supported by anecdotal evidence and some clinical reports, scientific research on salt therapy for animals is still in its early stages. Most of the evidence available comes from testimonials and observations from veterinary professionals and pet owners who have noticed positive outcomes after their animals undergo salt therapy.
As more studies are conducted, more concrete scientific evidence may emerge to support or refine these claims. However, it is important for pet owners to consult with a veterinarian before beginning any alternative treatments for their pets to ensure the therapy is appropriate and safe for their specific health conditions.