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5 Natural Ways to Treat Itchy Skin in Dogs

Itchy skin in dogs can be the symptoms of skin allergies, so you should consult a veterinarian in order to figure out the actual causes. Instead of giving medications, you can actually alleviate the pet’s itchy skin by giving some natural treatments. There are many things you can give as listed in the following passages.

1. Calendula Extract

Calendula tincture possesses anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, so it is good to use for topical application on the dog’s itchy skin areas. You can purchase calendula tincture in any health food store, so it is not difficult to find. Mix 15 drops of Calendula tincture with 4 oz of distilled water in a spray bottle. Simply spray the solution to the dog’s itchy skin.

2. Aloe Vera

Aloe vera offers plenty of benefits for human, but you can also use similar treatments to dogs as well. It can relieve itchy skin in dogs and prevent further itching symptom. Aloe vera gel is known for its antifungal and anti-bacterial properties, so it also stimulates faster healing process in dogs.

Even better, you can easily find aloe vera gel or cream in many pet shops. The gel or cream will gradually penetrate into the dog’s skin, so you need to make sure that your dog does not lick it in the meantime. Apply such treatment twice a day for optimum results.

3. Fatty Acids

Besides aloe vera, fatty acids can also help to relieve skin irritation in dogs. Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids can reduce inflammation and create protective barrier on dog’s skin that blocks out irritants and prevents infections. Fatty acids are available from many sources including fish oil, flaxseed oil, and pumpkin seed.

4. Oatmeal

Similar to fatty acids and aloe vera, oatmeal forms a protective layer on dog’s skin that prevents itching and dryness. It is one of the main reasons that various dog shampoos use oatmeal as an ingredient. Instead of feeding your dog with oatmeal, you need to apply it topically to dog’s skin. Therefore, you need to make a paste form of oatmeal by cooking it in water. Once the paste is cool enough, apply it to the infected areas of the dog’s skin.

Oat straw also offers similar benefits for dogs, but you need to use it as a bath additive. Simply boil 2 quarts of water with 1 pound of oat straw. Once the temperature is cool enough, pour the solution into the dog’s bath water.

5. Tea Tree Oil

Another natural substance that effectively cures itchy skin in dogs is tea tree oil. It also helps to prevent further infections thanks to its antiseptic properties. Simply apply tea tree oil to the dog’s infected skin, and then let the oil penetrates the skin. It is best to apply tea tree oil after every oatmeal bath.