No doubt many of you are feeling the dog days of summer heat. With the summer sun come unwelcome guests like pollen, fleas, and mosquitoes making their presence painfully known to us and our pets.
If your pet has been afflicted with a skin condition then you have already witnessed the painful image of your pet’s persistent licking, scratching, and shedding. This behavior can inflict a world of discomfort for your pet, both physically and psychologically, making life miserable for you both.
First, a simple blood test by your vet will determine what type of skin condition (allergies, skin parasites, etc) your pet may have. After your vet has made a determination, there are many methods (antibiotics, steroids, etc) that are available to offer immediate relief. But what do you do when you have tried all of the traditional forms of medication and nothing seems to help?
Holistic medicine attempts to treat the root cause of the problem versus the symptoms. You wouldn’t put a bandage on a bleeding wound without wondering why your body was bleeding in the first place? Homeopathy works from the inside out attempting to heal the initial cause of the problem versus the band-aid approach. The following are just a few of the many recommendations that may put you and your pet on the road to recovery.
*Your kitchen pantry may already be stocked with part of all natural solutions. Both safflower and olive oils can provide instant relief for dry, itchy skin. Apply a thin layer of oil to your dog’s skin or paws to relieve chapping. Even if your dog chooses to lick it off, there is still value in the oral administration of the oil. Unlike many traditional ointments offered, safflower oil and olive oil are healthy alternatives that can be consumed by your dog. That means no more head collars, or lamp shades, as my dog Buster calls them.
*Water is essential for all living creatures, it benefits your pet’s body both internally and externally. Always ensure that your pet’s water bowl is cleaned every day to avoid bacteria spread and that fresh distilled water is readily available at all times. Water is one of nature/s most powerful remedies; its cooling effect offers instant relief to your pet’s skin. Water’s cooling sensation also has a calming effect on your pet’s nerve endings. If a bathtub is not available, simply apply a wet cooled compress to affected areas of the skin.
*Mother Nature also offers us another healing secret, the aloe plant. Aloe is beneficial for treating cuts, scrapes and dry skin. Simply slice open a leaf and spread the healing gel directly on your pet’s skin. Always use the juice of a real plant. Many of the bottled versions of aloe contain mostly water and have lost their healing powers through over processing.
*Fatty Acids such as Omega-3s and Omega-6s can help with the reduction of inflammation.
*Your pet’s diet could be the culprit. Diet can have a major impact on your pet’s skin coat and digestion. Before feeding your pet today, first make sure to read all of the ingredients listed on that can or bag of food. Ingredients are always listed in order of relevance with the main ingredients listed first. Many dogs and cats are allergic to beef, dairy, corn and/or wheat, which in turn could be contributing to your pets ongoing skin issues. Some commercially produced foods contain artificial ingredients and preservatives which can weaken your pet’s immune system, therefore, reducing your pet’s ability to fight off infections. Consider adjusting your pet’s diet to all organic pet foods, raw food, or an all natural homemade diet like the one I feed my own dog. Buster’s diet consist of steamed organic chicken with brown rice, peas and carrots. Buster also loves a variety of steamed veggies but his absolute favorite snack is apples. No more worrying about artificial ingredients or fillers in my dog’s bowl of food. Please note that any changes to your pet’s diet should be a slow transition, done very slowly over time in order to give their sensitive digestive systems time to adjust. In addition, get ready to have the patience of a dog as it can take up to four weeks to see improvement. It is well worth the wait.
*What you apply to your skin’s coat is just as critical as what goes inside your pet’s body. Many of today’s shampoos and conditioners contain one too many harsh chemicals. Instead, opt for an all natural bottle of cleansing, such as one that contains the healing power of oatmeal. Oatmeal is a valuable resource that can help calm skin issues.
*All of that itching is bound to drive both you and your pet absolutely bonkers. Bach Flower Remedies may be the answer for both you and your pet. It can be found at some supermarkets and most health food stores. It’s what I provide to my dog if I see that he is distressed during thunderstorms. If your pets itching is incessant or has become compulsive, a stronger antidepressant may be required. Acupressure and massage may also help reduce the anxiety, reduce some of the swelling , and increase your pet’s production of natural chemicals that will help with the discomfort.
In order for your pet to be truly happy, their health is imperative. As their owner you hold the key to their happiness. If one solution doesn’t work, try another. It may be necessary to try and try again, but never give up on your furry friend. They are truly worth our loyalty in return.
Resources:
New Choices in Natural healing for Dogs & Cats
By Amy D Shojai and the Editors of Prevention for Pets
Photo Credit: Foxy Par4
