Coconut Oil for Allergies in Dogs

Essential oils are derived from many types of plants and may be used as an effective treatment for several variations of allergies in dogs. It is very important to understand to always contact your veterinarian for a complete examination of your dog before beginning any type of essential oil regimen.

Coconut oil is known for its healing properties. It may be ideal for your dog if he is suffering from obesity, mobility issues due to joint or bone health conditions, to treat wounds, to help him acquire more energy, and much more. Coconut oil is rapidly absorbed, improving digestive health and helping your dog’s body with absorbing important vitamins and minerals.

This oil can also prevent any allergies from impacting your dog, such as seasonal allergies, inhalant allergies, and even food allergies. Not only is a good for dogs, but it is good for people as well, and many individuals use it within their diet or on their skin.

Coconut oil for allergies in dogs is an effective way to help dogs with skin allergies and infections. Many veterinarians, including holistic veterinarians, recommend this type of essential oil to help treat a wide range of skin ailments.

Symptoms of specific ailments that can benefit from coconut oil are many. Symptoms may include:

• Skin conditions
• Digestive conditions
• Skin infections
• Obesity
• Aging and mobility
• Low energy
• Thick and hardened toenails
• Wounds
• Dry coat
• Bone health issues
• Cardiovascular conditions
• Flea and tick infestations

Types

Coconut oil has more than 90% of fats that are saturated. Types of saturated fats that coconut oil contains include:

• Monounsaturated fatty acids
• Polyunsaturated fatty acids
• Medium chain triglycerides
• Lauric acid
• Caprylic acid
• Capric acid
• Palmitic acid
• Myristic acid
• Linoleic acid
• Oleic acid

Causes of the benefits of coconut oil for a variety of conditions begin with the administration of the oil itself to either the skin of the dog or within his food. Causes include:

• Benefits come from medium chain triglycerides
• Contains antibacterial properties
• Contains antiviral properties
• Has anti-fungal effects
• Is metabolized efficiently within the body
• Enhances athletic abilities
• Helps with weight loss
• Balances the thyroid gland

Coconut oil is useful for many different diagnoses of a variety of ailments; however, it is important to take your dog to the veterinarian for any diagnosis before using coconut oil. If you choose to use coconut oil on your dog’s skin, you may be simply masking a larger problem. It is important to have your dog examined by a veterinarian before you begin.

The veterinarian may perform laboratory tests, such as blood tests for a complete blood count and to check for the presence of eosinophils (high white blood cell count), biochemistry profile, a skin test to determine skin allergies, and any other tests in which he feels are necessary according to your dog’s symptoms. 

He may also look for signs of fleas and ticks, dust mites, yeast infections, or fungal infections. Whatever your veterinarian may find, he will make a diagnosis of the specific problem your dog is having, and then we will let you know if you can use coconut oil as a method of treatment.

Coconut oil can help treat a variety of ailments, and once your veterinarian has done a complete examination of your dog, he may advise you that coconut oil may be effective as an aid in the treatment of any condition he may have. Other medications may be needed to help treat your dog, but some methods using coconut oil may include:

Topical

Using coconut oil each day on your dog’s skin and fur can treat a myriad of skin irritations and leave your dog’s coat shiny and healthy. Be sure to follow your veterinarian’s recommendations of how much to apply and how often to apply it.

Dietary

For other conditions, such as stomach conditions or for bone health, your veterinarian may recommend that you place coconut oil within his food. Your medical professional will explain to you the benefits of this superfood and how much to add into his diet. He will also give you advice on how often to feed your dog coconut oil.

In using coconut oil on your dog or in your dog’s diet, moderation is essential. It is important to not give your dog too much of this essential oil, as too much of any essential oil can lead to negative effects. Just like giving your dog a medication, proper dosage is key.

With coconut oil, your dog (and even you) can reap the many benefits of this saturated and healthy fat. Whatever ailments your dog has may dramatically improve with the regular, consistent use of this superfood. Be sure to communicate with your veterinarian how much of this natural substance you are giving to your dog and take any advice from your medical professional in terms of dosage and other recommendations.

Considering coconut oil for your pet? Most pet insurance companies offer wellness add-ons cover the cost of natural supplements and preventative care. Start shopping around for pet insurance today to find the “pawfect” option for your fur-baby.