Animals can suffer from seasonal allergies just like people, but they can also suffer from allergies all year around from both food and environmental triggers. These cases can be frustrating and difficult to manage for pet owners as allergies can last for the life of your pet. If your pet’s skin is red, inflamed, weepy, oozing and is not improving after 1 or 2 days of treatment at home, then please consult a veterinarian.
Allergies are almost always best treated using a multi-modal approach (using the combination of several different supplements, washes and medications together). There are home remedies that can be beneficial for your pet’s skin. Oral supplements like fish oil can greatly improve the skin barrier. I recommend a high quality omega 3 fish oil (I use Standard Process Tuna Omega-3).
Topical applications to the skin are an excellent way to soothe red, itchy and irritated skin. Epsom salt bath or soak is a great way to help relieve irritated skin followed by a chamomile tea rinse (soak 2-3 chamomile tea bags in a 1 litre jug of boiling water, allow to cool before using). No need to rinse off the tea rinse, just allow your pet to air dry.
There are several herbal supplements that can be added to your pet’s food that can also help to soothe and settle irritated skin. Occasionally our pets with allergies require pharmaceutical medications (anti-histamines, steroids, antibiotics or immune modulating medications) to combat serious skin allergies. I am an advocate of the complimentary approach, but there is also a time when pharmaceutical medications are necessary. Please consult your veterinarian if your pet’s skin does not improve within 1 to 2 days of treating at home or call me if you are interested in complimentary therapies to help manage your pet’s allergies.
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