Better pets

Allergies can be a pain in the skin for dogs and lead to hair loss, dry and flaky belly skin, inflamed paws and armpits, and ear infections. Compared to medication, natural treatments can offer a gentler, immune-supporting way to relief.

• Bathe your dog in an Epsom salt bath to calm inflammation.

• Support good gut bacteria with a nutritionally balanced diet that’s as fresh and unprocessed as it can be. Consider supplementing it with probiotics for gut health and overall wellbeing, and fish oil tablets to reduce inflammation and nourish the skin barrier.

• Rinse your dog’s body with apple cider vinegar (diluted 1:3 with water) or wipe between pads and toes, and lip and nose folds, to treat or prevent secondary infections, especially due to yeast. Patch test, and ask your vet before doing the ear canal opening.

• Replace chemical cleaners at home with natural options to avoid skin inflammation and cut stress on detox organs, such as the liver.

• Wipe your dog with a damp cloth post-walk to remove potential allergens and toxins, such as herbicides from the park.

• Natural therapies, including acupuncture, supplements, herbs and essential oils, may also provide relief. Mcdowells Herbal offers herbal treatment programs tailored to pets’ itchy skin. Visit mcdowellsherbal.com.