It is common for pet owners to use homemade allergy treatments as the treatment tends to be long term. A visit to the veterinarian will verify the cause of itching and he will many times make recommendations for home treatments. In addition to treating the symptoms, the source and cause of itching must be controlled to effectively eliminate the problem.
Treatment for Skin Allergies
Nutritional dermatitis results from feeding dog food that is lacking nutrients and vitamins needed for healthy skin and coat. Nutritional allergies are treated with changes to the dog’s diet. Improve the quality of food given to the dog and include an essential fatty acid supplement, preferably Omega 3 or 6. The supplement assists with the skin and coat health and is available at retail pet stores.
Atopic or environmental dermatitis is a reaction to pollen, dust, and mold. Baths with oatmeal shampoo or adding oatmeal to the water soothes the itching skin for all types of dermatitis. Baking soda or Epsom salt added to cool bath water also provide itch relief.
Parasitic dermatitis is caused by fleas and other parasites chewing and biting on the dog’s skin. Some dogs also have allergic reactions to the parasite saliva. Parasitic dermatitis requires eliminating the parasites prior to treating the itching. Treat the itching with bath types listed under Atopic dermatitis.
Neurogenic dermatitis is the result from anxiety or boredom in the dog. Symptoms include persistent itching, chewing on paws, and licking areas of the body. A dog with anxiety or boredom must be treated with stimulation. Make sure the dog receives plenty of exercise and has chew toys available.
Treatment for Hot Spots
A hot spot is a local inflammation and infection of the skin. The irritation is the result of a dog chewing and biting one area of skin until it becomes irritated and infected. A form of dermatitis is commonly the start of a hot spot.
According to vetinfo.com, a home treatment recipe for hot spots includes creating an aspirin, alcohol and herbal tea mixture. Crush and dissolve two aspirin in one tablespoon of isopropyl alcohol. Take one cup of warm, not hot, water and place a plain herbal tea bag in it. Mix the two solutions together and let cool. Shave the hair around the hot spot to help with the healing process. Gently apply the cooled mixture to the shaven area with a cotton ball. Apply as often as needed. An over the counter cortisone cream can be applied in addition to the solution.
Treatment for Insect Bites
Insect bite treatment requires first removing the insect or stinger. Apply a paste mixture of baking soda and water to the stung area. Plain Benedryl is safe to give a dog to treat swelling and itching. Consult with a veterinarian for the appropriate dose based on the size of dog. Apple cider vinegar or baking soda paste applied with a cotton ball will soothe the irritated area. If the sting or bite results in breathing problems or severe swelling, consult a veterinarian for additional treatment.
Sources:
Vet Info, no author name
Soothe Dog Skin Allergies with Homemade Remedies
http://www.vetinfo.com/dog-skin-allergies.html
