Have you been noticing your furry pet licking or biting into his body all the time? Itchy, irritating skin is a fairly common problem in dogs. Dry and itchy skin can be extremely uncomfortable for your pet and very frustrating for you. Skin issues in dogs can crop up from anything and anywhere such as certain food allergies, illness, or even seasonal changes. While the best way out of this is to seek a veterinary doctor, some simple tricks and tips can be a great way to relieve your dog's itchy, irritated skin and one of them is giving them an oatmeal bath.
Also Read: Dogs And Milk Diet: How Important Is It? Myths And Side Effects
Benefits of Oatmeal Baths for Dogs
Skin issues specifically when the dog has oodles of fur on him can go unnoticed leading to infected lesions and bringing multiple pathogens home. Several creams and ointments are helpful in soothing your dog's skin and not letting the situation get aggravated. At the outset, if the allergy is mild and until you have asked for veterinary intervention, an oatmeal bath can be an additional remedial solution. Of course, there should not be any delay if the problem does not subside in a day or two. Oatmeal has anti-inflammatory and protectant properties and can form a protective barrier and lock moisture in to prevent dryness. It is available at home, is an inexpensive ingredient, non-toxic for the pet and it is easy to make.
Ingredients Of A Doggie Oatmeal Bath
Most ingredients on your kitchen shelf here is what you must do need to create a homemade oatmeal bath for your dog:
- 1 cup plain, unflavoured oatmeal for large breeds and 1/2 cup for small breeds
- Warm water
- 2 spoons of olive oil
- 1 cup of high-fat milk (optional)
Preparing The Soothing Oatmeal Mixture
Grind or blend your oats on your blender’s highest setting to convert the ingredients into a fine powder. Test in a glass of warm water. If the oats are finely done, the water should feel smooth. If the liquid does not look milky, grind the oats again to make them finer. Repeat the process until it looks perfect.
Steps To Give Your Dog An Oatmeal Bath
Once you have prepared your oat powder, below are the steps to complete the bathing process:
- Fill the tub to a level that your dog will be comfortable with. Most dogs are good with water up to their tummy.
- Use a dog bathtub, a regular bathtub, or a large plastic container where your dog can fit in comfortably, or a good-sized sink for mini-sized breeds
- Begin pouring oatmeal-infused bathwater over the pet’s head and body
- Gently massage the water into their fur and skin. The oatmeal water should completely soak the infected areas
- Let the dog sit in the mixture for about fifteen minutes
- Use clean warm water to rinse
- Towel dry your dog being sure not to rub at the skin as it may remove the protective barrier the oatmeal creates. Once you have towel-dried your pet, you can brush its fur as gently as possible
Other Ways To Use Oatmeal On The Dog
While oatmeal baths will not cure every skin condition especially if it’s an infection, it can be a soothing addition during the dry months. If your doggie has itchiness in small patches, mix the oatmeal bath ingredients with a creamy paste, then apply directly to the irritated area and leave for some time.
When To See A Doctor?
If your dog is suffering from a more severe dermatological problem or severe skin ailments such as an infection, allergies, or other skin issues, seek a vet visit. Besides a vet, a therapeutic diet, environmental changes, or other measures to help the dog to become better.
