Going skin deep on pet health

Forget chemical flea or tick repellents, stock up on Rooibos and go easy on the bathing.

These are some of the top tips Vondi’s Holistic Pet Nutrition owner Paul Jacobson suggested when it comes to skin and coat problems.

“Itchy skin is caused by inflamed tissue cells due to acidity from acidic foods, chemicals and poisons. Solve the problem of acidosis (acidity) and you have solved your pet’s itchy skin and allergies,” said Jacobson, who has a branch in Ballito.

Also read: Dog walking – off leash or to heel? Ballito puppy trainer shares all

He said typical skin problems include hot spots, bacterial infection, hair loss, redness, smelly ears, licking of the paws and droopy eyes.

“Avoid acidic foods such as refined carbs (all your white flours and grains) including all kibble pellets, too much meat and chemical based shampoos and flea repellents.”

Try Jacobson’s four-step solution to give your healthy, pet skin relief:

1. Boost immunity

“Healthy pets are less likely to be affected by viruses, bacteria and parasites. A natural, wholesome diet that contains loads of fresh and raw blended green vegetables and herbs and is free of preservatives is paramount for your pet’s immunity. Adding salmon omega three oils – or any marine based oil, but not flax seed oil – is essential for skin conditions and general well-being. A small dog needs 500mg and a large 1000mg per day.”

2. A soothing Rooibos tea soak

Prepare a basin of Rooibos tea, add a quarter cup apple cider vinegar and quarter cup Vondis Khakibos spray – a flea and tick repellent. Once the water has cooled and you have removed the tea bags, gently submerge your dog’s body and hold him in this soothing water for five – ten minutes. Repeat a few times a week, if necessary.

3. Easy on the bathing

“One of the biggest mistakes we make is bathing our pets regularly and using harsh chemically-based shampoos. We feel that we need to wash the redness and irritation away, which aggravates the skin even further.”

Always check that shampoo is totally natural and does not contain parabens or chemicals.

“Try a Buchu-containing shampoo as Buchu is known for its anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. A natural shampoo containing Neem could also be recommended.”

4. Stay away from chemical flea/tick repellents

“It is always tempting to use strong chemicals and poison to kill fleas and ticks, but these products are also absorbed into the tissues and organs of the animal, accumulating over time, with a consequent impact on the well-being of the pet.”

Rather commit to regular grooming and bathing.

“Give your pet Aloe Ferox Bitter Crystals every third day. You need only hide a small crystal in a piece of meat or a natural treat for this to be effective. Alternatively, you may wish to include a quarter teaspoon for a small dog or half teaspoons for a large dog of crushed garlic into your pet’s daily meal. Also apply Khakibos spray or powder onto your pet’s bedding regularly.

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