THINGS YOU CAN DO TO HELP
Epsom Salt: Put your dog into an Epsom salt bath. A warm Epsom saltwater bath will soothe the itching and help disinfect any skin problem areas. Instead of rinsing your dog's feet, allow them to lick after the bath. Then gently pat their paws dry. The salt water can be effective as an anti-bacterial solution. Epsom salt contains sodium chloride, potassium and nitrates, which help restore the natural bacteria balance on the dog's skin. Epsom salt can raise the pH level of the skin, which assist with regulating the normal ratio of bacteria. Very soothing for the dog, they will love you for it.
Socks: Put white cotton socks on your dog's paws. Use children size socks for larger dogs and baby booties on small to petite dogs. Socks can help protect the dogs from further harming themselves and can be soothing on their paws. Any infection our dogs may have will be contained and prevent spreading to other areas of the skin. I do not recommend using any elastic or rubber bands as this may restrict blood flow and can be very dangerous. I only recommend using the sock or booties just as it is made, if they are too loose try smaller socks or booties until you have found the right fit.
Baking Soda with water: Keep a small container or bowl with baking soda and water. Place on the floor with a towel underneath to prevent spilling if you like and will allow an area to help dry your dog's paws after you lightly swish their paws in the solution. This will help remove pollens which can cause itching and provoke our dogs from licking at their paws. This can be rubbed or rinsed on other skin areas that are irritated. Baking soda water is also very soothing to the skin.
Tea: Both chamomile and sage teas can be effective at treating the annoying itchiness, which can cause a dog to excessively lick at irritated skin areas and their paws. Chamomile can be effective antiseptic, sometimes better than antibiotics when used topically. Soak tea bags in warm water when swab the dog's paws with the tea bags. Using tea bags can speed the healing process of many types of wounds and is a calming agent.
Sage tea prevents and reduces swelling, while it also relives skin irritation. The anti-histamine benefits allow for a safer alternative to medications. Dogs should never be given Tylenol or ibuprofen always consult your veterinarian. Sage tea is also used as a mouth wash to relieve gum irritation. Sage tea is helpful for use as an antiperspirant beneficial to some dog's since their sweat glands are located at their feet helping to reduce dehydration. Keep in mind that dogs do need to sweat at time so allow their bodies to do what is natural.
If none of these tips are effective your dog may have other serious issues with itching and irritated skin, that could be diet or other household items such as carpet powder to reduce pet oder that our dog's could be allergic to. Dog's have sensitive skin just like we do and need that extra loving care. Consult you veterinarian for other alternative solutions.
A veal or duck diet can also be prescribed and is very beneficial.
Good luck
Let us know how you do we love to hear from you
Tina Leigh's
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