Dogs get rashes for a variety of reasons including parasites and allergies to food, medications, or environmental factors. If you suspect that a medication allergy is the culprit, consult your vet to find out if it is OK to stop the medication for a few days to see if the rash clears up. If it does, your vet will prescribe an alternative. If it does not, there are several things you can do at home to relieve your dog's discomfort.
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Oatmeal Bath
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Oatmeal is an effective itch remedy. Oatmeal has skin-soothing properties that provide immediate relief for itchiness. A gentle bath with an oatmeal-based shampoo and lukewarm (not hot) water goes a long way toward healing a generalized rash. If the rash is localized, an oatmeal plaster can stop the itch without making it necessary to bathe the whole dog.
Haircut
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Many dogs have coarse hair that can irritate a rash. The outer layer of hair on most dogs is somewhat coarse, and can irritate and suffocate an inflamed area of skin. Using small scissors or trimmers, remove the hair around the rash, leaving a border of healthy skin around the edge. The hair will no longer irritate the rash, so it won't be as itchy, and air will be able to circulate to help heal the irritation.
Aloe Vera
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Aloe vera is a well-known skin soother. Aloe vera gel is a known skin soother that also has moderate healing properties. Apply the gel directly to the rash several times daily, and keep it in the refrigerator for extra soothing power.
Baking Soda
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A creamy baking soda paste can be applied directly to the rash. A paste of baking soda and water or milk can be applied directly to the rash to help stop itching. Although the remedy is effective, it is not immediate relief, so do not allow your dog to lick or scratch the paste off his skin. It will not work unless there is prolonged contact, and ingesting the baking soda can cause excessive drooling or even vomiting from the bitter taste.
Milk of Magnesia
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The thickness of milk of magnesia allows it to cling to the rash. Milk of magnesia soothes dry, itchy skin the same way it soothes stomachs. The thickness of the liquid allows it to cling to the skin and coat the rash while moisturizing the dry area. A decrease in dryness may lead to a decrease in itchiness. Apply milk of magnesia directly to the rash with a cotton ball.
Green Tea
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A green tea soak will soothe and cleanse the skin. Green tea has skin-soothing properties as well as a slight antiseptic action. Drench your dog in cool green tea, making sure his hair is saturated to the skin. Allow him to air dry without rinsing or toweling, and discourage him from licking the tea off himself for maximum effectiveness.
Cleanliness
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Cleanliness promotes healing while discouraging secondary infection. Keeping the rash clean is the best thing you can do to promote healing. Skin rashes are prone to invasion by bacteria and yeast, and each time the dog licks or chews the area, he provides a moist environment for microbial growth. Frequent cleansing with a moisturizing soap and a soft cloth can keep the area clean enough to allow treatments to take effect. If the rash persists or becomes worse despite your efforts, consult your vet for a more targeted treatment plan.
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