Natural remedies for dogs can cure a series of diseases. Before modern veterinary medicine developed medications for most medical conditions in canines, people used to treat their pets mainly with herbal extracts, oils, natural ointments, infusions and a special diet. Natural remedies have a series of advantages and in some cases, they are more efficient than drugs, having fewer side effects. It is widely known that, in the wild, a dog suffering from a specific medical condition will instinctively search for herbs that help with the health problem. Many owners turn to alternative medicine and natural therapies for their pets because of their efficiency and safety.
Causes of Hay Fever in Dogs
Allergic reactions such as hay fever are triggered in dogs by allergens such as:
- Pollens (tree pollen, weed pollen, grass pollen)
- Dust mites
- Human dander
- Feathers
- Molds
Most of these irritants are seasonal and they will only cause allergic reactions during certain periods of the year.
Hay Fever Natural Remedies for Dogs
Just like humans, dogs can suffer from hay fever. Hay fever is quite common in dogs: more than 10% suffer from this condition. Hay fever in canines manifests in the same way as in humans with sneezing, wheezing, watery eyes and nasal discharges. In dogs, hay fever is also accompanied by itching and generalized rashes. These are the symptoms which cause discomfort in your dog.
In treating hay fever, the first step is to identify the allergen and if possible, avoid exposure to it. Keep your dog indoors during pollen season to prevent hay fever. Natural remedies for hay fever generally offer comfort regarding the symptoms that manifest on your dog’s skin. They help relief itches and restore the health of the skin.
Herbal Extracts for Hay Fever
If the reaction on the dog’s skin only manifests on a small surface, you can apply an herbal poultice in the area. The poultice smooths the skin and offers relief. Poultices can be made of:
- A paste of ground sandalwood and lime juice
- A paste of almond leaves mashed in water
- Mashed poppy seeds, lime juice and water
Research reveals that chamomile is efficient to soothe allergic reactions and helps dogs with hay fever. Chamomile has relaxing and anti-inflammatory properties and is also good for the digestive tract. You can make an infusion and use it to gently wipe the affected areas on your dog’s skin. Lemon, lime and orange extracts are also helpful. Squeeze them and apply the juice on your dog’s skin. Their high vitamin content and acidity help relive the rashes.
Baths for Hay Fever
Cold water baths are indicated to relieve itchiness. It is recommended to add colloidal oatmeal to the bath water. Baths help with the symptoms but they also have an important role in removing the allergen from your dog’s coat so that the allergens will not enter the dog’s system through the skin or through inhalation.
If your dog has itchy paws, mild Epson salt solutions are recommended.