Besides itching, hair loss and licking, dogs suffering from allergies often get weepy eyes and ear infections. Boric acid treats these conditions as well as helps to rid your home of fleas, a common allergen. Read on to learn more about using boric acid to treat dog allergies.
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Eye Wash
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When properly diluted, boric acid makes a great wash to soothe your dog's watery, irritated eyes. First, boil one quart of water, then add in a tablespoon of boric acid powder. Stir until dissolved. After the solution cools, saturate a cotton ball and rub it across your dog's eyelids and under the eyes. Next, take a medicine dropper and drop two drops in each eye. Repeat this procedure two times a day for two to four days, or until your dog's symptoms improve.
Ear Treatment
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Does your dog constantly shake his head and scratch his ears? Not surprising, allergies and ear infections go together in dogs. Once your vet diagnose an infection and a closed eardrum, boric acid can help. To treat the infection, mix together 16 oz. of isopropyl alchohol, 4 tbsp. of boric acid powder, and 16 drops of 1 percent Gentian Violet solution. Pour into a plastic bottle with a narrow application tip, like one used to color your hair at home. Shake well, then squirt a generous amount of solution into your dog's ear. Massage the solution into the ear for a minute, then wipe excess away with a tissue. Repeat two times a day for the first week, followed by one time per week for two weeks. Be cautious when applying, though, Gentian Violet stains.
Boric Acid and Fleas
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Some dogs are allergic to fleas. In that case, keeping your environment flea-free will provide your pet with the most relief. Boric acid kills hatching fleas. It's most often sprinkled into the carpet, worked in with a broom, and then vacuumed up after one to two weeks. You can also work it into your furniture, then vacuum it out after a week. Be cautious, though, boric acid can be toxic if large amounts are ingested, so it may not be the safest choice for houses with small children. Also, to be safe, it should not be used for this type of treatment around pregnant women.
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