5 Popular Pet Remedies For Itchy Skin In The Winter
Itchy skin is the most common skincare problem for dogs. Itchy skin can result from a number of internal and external factors. These can range from fleas or ticks, to skin inflammation, bacterial infections, allergies to foods like chicken, corn or wheat or even genetic factors. However, one of the leading causes of itchy skin is dryness caused by cold weather in winters.
What makes the winter itch more troublesome is the fact that finding a solution to it can prove difficult. Because a dog's skin is sensitive, over the counter pet shampoos and clinical formulations with harsh chemicals might not be the safest bet. Even when used, these medicated shampoos might achieve temporary relief at best.
In such situations a gentle skincare solution or natural home remedies are the best because they treat dryness and eliminate several other triggers of itchy skin in a natural, gentle manner. The adoption of these remedies continues to grow, because pet parents want only the best for their dog's skin and therefore seek the least damaging solutions for itchy skin. Let's take a look at some popular ones.
1. Apple Cider And Vinegar
A 50/50 mix of raw, unfiltered apple cider and vinegar is recommended because both ingredients serve multiple purposes. Apple cider can balance the pH levels of the skin and serve as a natural yet effective fungicide and pest repellant. Vinegar has antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties. Together they can put an end to skin infections that arise from winter itchiness. By breaking this cycle of itching and infections, a mix of Apple Cider and Vinegar or even apple cider and water can prove effective as a remedy for itchiness in the winter. For sensitive skin, the vinegar can be replaced by brewed green tea as well. The solution can be applied using a spray bottle or sponge twice a day until the itching stops.
2. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a known remedy that hydrates the skin and puts an end to itchiness. Being all natural, it can be applied topically or given internally with equal success. Its usefulness in ending the winter itch stems from coconut oil’s fatty acids that moisturize and repair damaged skin. These same fatty acids can also be absorbed through the skin to boost your dog’s immune system. Extra virgin coconut oil can also fight infections and heal topical wounds.
Dosage typically depends on the age and size of your dogs. And it should be noted that any over the counter brand of coconut oil might not be suitable for use, instead any reputable human brand of extra-virgin, pure coconut oil that is cold pressed will work for your dog. Adding coconut oil to your pet's meals and applying it topically twice a day can have encouraging results in just a couple of days.
3. Baking Soda
Baking soda is a great antifungal and an even better exfoliating agent. The ideal method of application is to mix two tablespoons of baking soda with half a tablespoon of water. This paste should then be gently massaged onto the affected areas once or twice a day, left on for fifteen minutes before and then washed off. If the itch is not confined to just one area, baking soda can also be added to dogs' bath water.
4. Bark Out Loud's Allergy and Itch Relief Shampoo
Bar Out Loud's Allergy and Itch Relief Shampoo is specially formulated to meet the needs of pets with sensitive skin and allergic skin conditions. It is a great option for pet parents looking for a skincare solution that is mild and gentle on the skin, yet effective at treating winter allergies by maintaining skin integrity and restoring its natural balance.
The main ingredient is Piroctone Olamine, an anti-bacterial & antifungal agent. It helps retain skin barrier function and prevents itching from winter allergies and dry skin. It also contains Castor Oil that soothes skin and locks in moisture, preventing the root cause of itchiness, dry skin. Besides this the shampoo contains a combination of natural anti-inflammatory ingredients, mild cleansing agents and essential fatty acids that treat conditions & rashes caused by dryness, mites, follicular plugging, hotspot, yeast infections.
The shampoo reduces irritation significantly in the first wash itself and can be used as frequently as needed to manage itching and allergies. Moreover, it is 100% safe and gentle enough to be used for puppies and kittens too.
5. Bark Out Loud Anti Microbial Spray
Bark Out Loud’s Antimicrobial Spray is your first line of defense for pets' skin related woes. This remedy can help you deal with the effects of itching and dry skin such as sores, wounds and hotspots.
The antimicrobial spray works as a disinfectant on your pets’ body and surroundings to soothe skin and prevent infections. The active ingredient in this spray is Hypochlorous acid which kills microorganisms quickly and safely while also preventing the formation of bacterial colonies on your pets' skin.
Hypochlorous acid is also an antiseptic that speeds up the healing of wounds. Furthermore, the spray bottle makes using it easy and convenient. For best results this spray should be used in conjunction with Bark Out Loud Allergy and Itch Relief Shampoo. Both are completely safe and free from stinging or provoking any cause of discomfort towards pets.
