Dogs are affected by allergies, just like their human counterparts. As with humans, there are ways of treating dog allergies naturally. Allergies occur when the immune system responds to allergens or antigens which are exposed to the body. Itching, respiratory responses (coughing, sneezing, wheezing), eye discharge and problems with the digestive system (diarrhea or vomiting) are common symptoms associated with allergies.
Knowing what is causing the allergy is an integral component with the treatment process. The most common types of dog allergies include contact, food, bacterial, flea, and inhalant (tree and grass pollen, mold, mildew, dust mite). Using natural alternatives can help alleviate the symptoms associated with allergies, but if the condition worsens, seeking medical advice from a veterinarian is recommended.
Apple Cider Vinegar Helps Naturally Treat Dog Allergies
Apple cider vinegar is becoming a staple in everyone’s pantry, especially for the health benefits. It can be used in various ways to help a canine with itchy skin associated with allergies. Diluting a 50/50 mixture of apple cider vinegar with water in either a bath, or a spray bottle to disperse evenly on a dogs coat is a natural way to help relieve itchiness, or adding a teaspoon of vinegar into the dog’s food or water. This treatment will not only help with allergies, but helps with overall digestive helps and eliminates fleas.
Oatmeal Is Not Just for Breakfast Anymore
Oatmeal is a natural alternative treatment to help with dry, itchy skin in dogs. To make an oatmeal bath, use one cup of unflavored oatmeal that has been grinded in a blender, and add it to a tub of lukewarm water. Don’t forget to stir the water until the oatmeal is completely dissolved and allow the dog to soak for approximately 10 to 15 minutes. This oatmeal bath with help soften and shine the dogs coat, while relieving the skin symptoms associated with dog allergies.
Vitamins and Supplements for Dog Allergies
Another way to help relieve dog allergies naturally is using vitamins, such as Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids. These supplements aid as an anti-inflammatory and reduce the allergic response, therefore reducing the allergy symptoms.
Vitamin C, at 100 mg per 10 lbs of body weight daily, increases T-cell production which strengthens the immune system. This increases resistance to bacterial and viral infections, also aiding with allergies.
Vitamin E helps provides nourishment to cells and strengthens capillary walls. A deficiency of vitamin E may lead to dry skin, aggravating a skin allergy even more. Administering 100 IU per 10 lbs of body weight to the canine daily will help with dry skin; it is also an antioxidant that helps aging canines with heart and muscle conditions.
Using Herbs to Naturally Treat Dog Allergies
Herbs have been used in Traditional Chinese Methods (TCM) for centuries and can help relieve the symptoms associated with dog allergies. Licorice root contains a compound which is similar to corticosteroids, called glycyrrhizin, which helps to reduce itching and inflammation. If the dog has scaly, red skin similar to eczema or psoriasis, nettle or sarsaparilla both has antibiotic actions to help treat the chronic skin conditions.