The use of homeopathic treatments is increasingly widespread also in the field of pets as an alternative or complement to traditional medicine.
Even in canine dermatology, numerous essences are used to relieve itching, redness and skin irritation. Let’s find out which are the most effective and used to appease the typical symptoms of these disorders, such as itching or dog’s red skin!
Why does my dog have red skin and scratching?
The causes of itching and reddened skin in dogs can be varied and manifest themselves in different ways even from subject to subject. One of the main causes of reddening of the dog’s skin is food allergies, but in general the most frequent are:
Although it may be difficult to trace the agent causing the discomfort, this is undoubtedly the first and most important step to investigate for solving the problem.
What are the natural remedies for red skin in dogs?
Many essences known for their beneficial properties on our body also have positive effects on our 4-legged friends, especially on the dog’s reddened skin.
Chamomile, Calendula and Mallow
Chamomile, Calendula and Mallow are medicinal plants whose essences have an important soothing power if applied topically. There Calendula, in particular, it is effective through the action of healing washes against wounds, insect bites, skin lesions and abrasions. It is also used for skin cancers and chronic diseases.
Its exceptional soothing properties have given it such a reputation as to be available on the market in the most varied formulations (tablets, ointments, etc.).
When applying to open wounds or abscesses, make sure that the affected area has first been thoroughly cleaned and disinfected.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera, both as a juice and as a gel, is also a potent antiseptic which is well suited to relieve external wounds, stings and irritations.
In these cases it is also possible to add a teaspoon of calendula tincture to the mixture, which will enhance the anti-inflammatory action of aloe.
Vitamins C, E, A
The vitamins of group C, E and A are all very important for the health of the dog and their deficiency or imbalance can be responsible for numerous dermatological problems, such as skin, fur and mucous membrane disorders.
These compounds are powerful antioxidants, which protect cells from skin aging. With a balanced diet based on fresh foods, these deficiencies are unlikely to occur. Alternatively supplements for dogs are available under the name of complementary feed for animals.
Licorice root
Licorice root can be found easily in herbal medicine, but even better is to obtain licorice powder. It acts as a natural cortisone, thus “sedating” the inflammatory response. Thanks to these excellent properties, it can be used in case of eczema and skin rashes.
L’ointment it is prepared by slow-cooking 30g of root powder in 1.5 liters of water, to be filtered and left to cool.
Zinc creams
Zinc creams are a panacea for men’s itching and reddened skin, and for this reason there are numerous formulations in a normal pharmacy. Its curative action is well known also in the 4 paws: excellent for lacerations, burns and for the reconstitution of abraded tissues. Its action enhances that of the dog’s immune system, supporting its recovery.
Green tea
To remedy the itching and reddened skin of the dog, it is useful to prepare some wraps based on green tea or black tea.
Add 2 tablespoons of infusion in 500 ml of water boiling and leave to cool. With a clean gauze, proceed with delicate dressings of the affected area, or alternatively with actual foot baths (for at least 15 minutes).
Natural remedies or traditional therapies?
Both if necessary! Natural or homeopathic treatments, both in dogs and in humans, use an opposite approach to that of traditional Western medicine: they do not act by contrasting the agent causing the disorder, but they support the animal’s general health without directly interfering with the pathological processas the synthetic pharmacological therapy we know is proposed instead.
While on the one hand homeopathic treatment may not always guarantee the desired result, however, traditional medicine it is not without side effectswhich in certain contexts can turn out to be even worse than the primary problem.
This is why – always under veterinary advice – it is possible, and desirable, to combine the two methods in parallel if it is deemed appropriate, always aiming to identify the origin of the problem as a necessary condition for its resolution.
And have you already used natural remedies to support the health of your 4-legged?