Dog Skin Problems
04 Apr 2011
Tea tree oil has been known to be a very powerful natural extract that combat bacterial and fungal ailments on the skin and respiratory problems. Topical use is the most common route of treatment for skin infections such as acne, boils and warts. Tea tree oil is also used to cure dog skin problems, canine dandruff and is effective in getting rid of lice. The benefits on the skin provided by tea tree oil makes it a good ingredient in protecting and optimizing skin health.
As we know, dog skin problems are very common since their skins are slightly basic, compared that of humans, dogs have sweat glands only on their noses and other exposed parts of their body not covered with fur. With humans, the presence of sweat glands and a more slightly acidic skin pH creates a thin film on the surface of our skins to cover us from factors in the environment that could harm us and affect our overall health. Dogs, have a more basic skin pH, which is covered with fur. Therefore, they don’t have enough acid to fight and protect themselves from bacteria and other pests from the environment. Realizing this then would make us take dog skin problems seriously or if possible, do early preventive measures to protect our dogs and lessen their susceptibility to agents and pests that may harm their skin. Dog skin problems include eczema, scalp psoriasis, ringworm, etc, as skin is the first line of defense of the body, the primary step is to cleanse our canine friends. It is not advisable to frequently bathe our dogs since its skin might get dry if the natural oils are often washed off the skin. So when bathing our dogs once in a while, we are to use products that ensure thorough cleansing and moisturizing.
First, the oh-so-reliable tea tree oil has a lot of benefits, but aside from its chemical properties, its physical property of smell is also very useful. We all know that it is used in aromatherapy, we all love the relaxing and minty scent it gives out but creatures such as ticks, fleas and lice are sensitive to. And if your dog has been invaded with these creatures, it is inevitable that it would often scratch its dog skin causing breaks making itself prone to infection. The good thing about tea tree oil is that it may discourage your dog from digging its skin due also to its aroma. Shampoos and creams are available in the market, however some claim that tea tree oil is harmful to pets such as cats and dogs because it may cause poisoning when swallowed. According to Paracelsus, “All things are poison, and nothing is without poison; only the dose permits something not to be poisonous.” On one hand, cats and small dogs can be sensitive to tea tree oil but on the other hand, the proper amount through dilution can be always achieved. To make sure that the amount of a pet product ingredient is not toxic, ask your Vet about it or look for products that have been certified safe for treatment of dog skin problems. Dog skin problems can be avoided through proper nutrition, simple cleansing and grooming. Use of other products that have ingredients unfamiliar to us to treat diseases like dog skin problems require us to educate ourselves to be more responsible owners to our canine friends.
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