Here are some of my simple and natural suggestions I would use to help soothe your itchy hound.
The dogs’ skin prefers a slightly acid pH in order to reduce the harm caused by the natural pathogens that it comes into contact with. If the skin is not suitably acidic, these pathogens start their work and cause the irritation to occur.
Based on this, I have used some rather simple and natural ingredients in my methods!
The tea rinse.
A tea made by steeping chamomile or calendula tea bags in hot water and then applying to problem areas after it has cooled, can soothe and promote healing
at amazing speed. Many calendula -based gels, sprays and lotions available at good quality health stores are also excellent and do a great job. Or Chamomile tea uses the natural disinfecting effects of the chamomile plant to settle upset doggy tummies. It is recommended for colic, gas, and anxiety. It can also alleviate minor skin irritations. Just cool in the fridge and spray onto the affected area on the dog’s raw skin. Your dog should feel an immediate soothing effect as the chilled tea kills the yeast and/or bacteria on the skin. A warm (not hot) tea bag can also be used for soothing infected or irritated eyes.
Bicarbonate of soda, salt and fresh lemon juice is another favourite of mine. Mix Bicarb of soda and salt together dry and gently rub into the wet coat. Add fresh lemon juice and leave it to do its magic for 60 seconds or when the fizz has stopped. Finally rinse with clean warm water or tea!.
Ground oatmeal is a time-honoured remedy for irritated skin. You can use baby oatmeal cereal or grind it yourself in a food processor. Stir the oatmeal into a bath of warm water and let your dog soak in the healing goodness. Your dog will thank you, trust us. Dogs with skin allergies, infections, and other diseases which cause itchiness have been shown to gain immediate relief with this approach – or place the oats in some muslin cloth and immerse in the bath water itself to create a milky soak, in which to stand your pup. Frequent bathing is not recommended for pups with skin and coat problems – once a month at most, is all that’s required.
Aloe Vera is a soothing herb that can be used topically. Many pet guardians grow aloe in pots at home and cut off a piece when skin problems arise; a
gel is emitted when this succulent plant is cut, and this gel can be rubbed right onto the skin. Forever Aloe Vera jelly can be bought from my friendly distributor based in Kings Heath, Birmingham UK – www.charlotterichards.myforever.biz (07473401301
mention A1 grooming). For worldwide agents please click here
Witch hazel is helpful for skin irritation that occurs in conjunction with pustules. 2 drops in warm water and wipe all over. Tea tree oil can also be used this way too.
Dandelion greens, celery, spinach and lettuce are all cooling foods which are recommended to help with skin eruptions. Since the liver is often out of balance when skin problems surface, nourishing herbs such as nettle are also recommended. Nettle tea given as a drink or even fresh nettles boiled down can be added to the food.
Supplementation with vitamin C, as well as a good quality fish or plant-based oil that’s rich in omega 3 and 6 EFAs ( essential fatty acids) can be very helpful for the skin and coat. Vitamin C is found in abundantly in herbs such as rose hip.
Hope this helps!
Tim K.
