Just like humans, dogs can have issues with their skin, particularly dry, itchy skin. Many factors can cause this itchy skin. The dog may have been exposed to an irritant such as soaps and shampoos, laundry detergent and the dyes on home furnishings. He may also have allergies to mold, pollen and dust. Whatever the reason for the dog's itchy skin, there is a natural and effective way to make him feel comfortable once again.
Things You'll Need
- Oatmeal
- Water
- Bowl
- Sock
- Large spoon
- Piece of twine
- Bathtub
- Towel
- Calendula extract
- Tea tree oil
- Hairbrush
- Fish oil
Instructions
Oatmeal Treatment
Mix equal parts rolled oatmeal and water. How much mixture you make depends greatly on the amount of area needed to be covered, and the size and weight of your dog.
Stir the mixture until you have a paste like consistency.
Place a scoop of the oatmeal mixture into a clean sock.
Tie the end of the sock closed with a piece of twine.
Rub the oatmeal filled sock over the dog's itchy skin for five to ten minutes. You may need to refill the sock if there is a large area of affected skin to cover.
Place your dog into the bathtub and rinse any oatmeal paste from its skin.
Dry the dog off with a towel and place him into a warm, dry place to finish air drying.
Other Treatments
Apply calendula extract with a cotton swab twice a day to the affected area to give the dog some immediate relief.
Mix a few drops of tea tree oil into a spray bottle full of cool water. Spritz the mixture onto the affected area once a day. This mixture should provide relief for at least ten hours.
Brush your dog's coat daily. Brushing helps stimulate the dog's hair follicles, which will produce more natural oils. These oils will be spread across the dog's coat and the moisture will help relieve some of the itching.
Feed your dog foods that are high in fish oils. The omega 3 and omega 6 essential fatty acids that are found in fish oils will help provide moisture to the dog's coat and may also reduce inflammation. Fish oil can be given to the dog orally daily in pill and gel capsule form. Discuss this treatment with your veterinarian and he will recommend the necessary dosage.