How to Bathe a Dog with Skin Allergies
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Introduction
If your dog has skin allergies, his skin is dry and itchy and possibly even tender and sore. You need to be extra careful bathing a dog with skin allergies because you don't want to cause any more dryness. You also don't want to cause your dog any discomfort or pain. Water and soap or shampoo on any open sores or wounds or even dry, flaky spots could cause pain or burn if not done with the right products or even if washing is overdone. Baths given too frequently can cause your dog's skin to become dry and flaky. Dogs who deal with skin allergies have a tougher time taking baths.
Dog's Perspective
If your dog's skin is tender or sore and sensitive, he may be a little apprehensive about getting in the bath. He may also associate bathing with pain and discomfort if his skin allergies are really bad. Ease his discomfort by using natural products and products meant to soothe allergy irritated skin. Also, be sure to offer your dog lots of love, understanding, and treats while bathing.
The Oatmeal Bath Method
The Wipe and Wash Method
Caution & Considerations
- Be sure you are talking to your veterinarian to better understand your dog’s allergies. Ask your veterinarian about dietary needs and supplements for your dog’s skin allergies.
- Consider the source of your dog's skin allergies. A simple change in diet or added supplements may help your dog's skin and coat.
- Bathing your dog too often can cause dry, flaky skin.
- If your dog's skin allergies are relatively recent, you may want to look into the skin products you are using to ensure they are not only good for your dog's dry skin but also not causing dry skin.
- Consider giving your dog dry baths every so often with oatmeal or cornstarch and baking soda to help rid your dog of any odors but without chemicals or painful scrubbing on your dog's skin.
- Anytime your dog has a wet bath, try to pat him down with a towel rather than rub and irritate his skin to dry him off.
- Using any kind of heated hair dryer may also irritate your dog's skin. The heat on dry, flaky or sensitive skin may burn and be painful for your dog.
Conclusion
Success Stories and Grooming Questions
Grooming Questions & Answers
Sassy
Sassy just came into my care after her owner passed away unexpectedly and tragically. She was in her home for at least 6 days that we know for sure without food or water. She was found laying beside her owner on the floor. She is so very sad and also struggling with what I believe are skin allergies that went untreated because her owner was in a very bad place mentally and could not care for her. Due to these unexpected events, I am financially unable to take Sassy to the vet for at least 2 weeks. Please tell me what I can do for her at home. Natural remedies that are inexpensive are preferred. Also how can I help cheer her up. She isn’t leaving my side. I understand that completely considering her being alone for days, so I’m letting her go with me everywhere. Any advice on handling separation anxiety would be helpful, as I get the feeling that she is going to struggle with this when I must leave her at home.
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My cousin gave my dog a bath when she was dog sitting with dial bar soap and he got a reaction/ painful bumps. He also has very dry skin. Is oatmeal best to soothe him? Will the irritation go away?
0 Dog owners recommended
Thank you for the question. I would have Charlie checked at the vet. The vet can prescribe a soothing ointment that will heal the skin. An oatmeal bath does often soothe dry skin but is not a cure-all for skin that is irritated from a harsh substance. Dial bar soap should never be used on a dog. It's strong smelling and has ingredients that can strip the skin of natural oils. The vet can help!
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