HOW HEAT WAVES EFFECTS DOGS? CAUSES AND HERBAL REMEDIES FOR SKIN PROBLEMS

ABSTRACT

The summer season is when we all want to be outside in the bright sunshine- playing, relaxing, and having a cool drink. As do our pets. However, the sun can sometimes prove to be a bit harsh on our dogs, especially if they have sensitive skin. The heat combined with the humidity brings a plethora of problems associated with the skin and fur. It is vital to use preventative measures against these skin issues and promptly treat them once evident, to prevent further complications. Ayurveda offers some natural and holistic ways of preventing and treating skin disorders and complications in canines. 

INTRODUCTION

Who doesn’t love the summer season? The skies shine bright and it lights up our mood. From school vacations to summer camps and loads of activities- our summers are filled with joy. We may also take our pets with us to enjoy the outside, and they are happy to be with us and play all sorts of games. Although with the summer comes the heat of the summer, and with the heat come various skin problems- in us as well as in our furry friends. In this article we will explore what sort of skin problems pets can experience with the reasons and symptoms. We will also see how to prevent them from happening and how to tackle the issues once they are apparent.

CAUSES

The humidity associated with summer along with the heat is the main reason why skin and fur problems can happen in dogs. This humidity can disrupt the natural microbiome of the skin which can cause a number of infections including bacteria and yeast. Sometimes, pets have sensitive skin just like us. Exposure to the heat can cause itching and redness. Excessive scratching due to a heat rash can further aggravate the rashes. The scratching can also damage the skin. A heat rash can also be provoked by increased exposure to heat and the sun. Another reason why skin issues might develop is folds in the skin of dogs. While dogs don’t sweat the way we humans do, the heat and humidity along with the friction can cause significant problems. Some dogs have certain allergies such as gluten, dust, etc. which can cause allergic reactions. These allergic reactions can manifest as rashes on the skin. Another major and persistent issue that our pets often experience is ticks and fleas. They can either be transferred from other animals such as other dogs, or sometimes can also be picked up from the ground or the grass blades, especially in the summer and monsoon season. To summarize, some reasons why skin problems can happen during the summer are

• Heat and Humidity
• Sensitive skin
• Overexposure to sun
• Excessive Scratching
• Folds in the skin
• Prolonged exercise in hot conditions
• Picking up Ticks and Fleas
• Allergies
• Nutritional imbalance
• Hormonal changes

SYMPTOMS

Some symptoms of Heat Rash or infections are

• Redness
• Bumps
• Blisters
• Sores and scabs
• Tenderness
• Itchiness
• Hair loss or shedding
• Dull fur
• Incessant licking
• Skin patches that don’t look normal

Some signs and symptoms of ticks and fleas are

• Scratching
• Biting or Chewing the skin
• Tiny Red Bumps on the skin
• Small black dots on the skin
• Lethargy, fever, loss of appetite

While ticks themselves are dangerous, they can also carry scary diseases and transmit them to our dog, such as different infections or even tapeworms. This can manifest as fever and loss of appetite along with lethargy in dogs.

DIAGNOSIS

Diagnosing a skin problem is the first step in treating the issue. Veterinarian doctors will typically use inspection and history taking for diagnosing skin problems. If required, skin scraping tests may also be done which can uncover mites or help in diagnosing fungal or bacterial infections. The common problem areas must be regularly checked for fleas and ticks. For example, the nail bed, all four paws, near the tail, and near the neck and ears should be checked on a frequent basis.

AYURVEDIC OVERVIEW

Ayurveda emphasizes on the tridosha philosophy which says that it is important to balance the three doshas- Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. When these doshas are out of balance, a range of issues can occur. When it comes to skin problems in dogs, there are certain Ayurvedic herbs which work wonders. While Ashwagandha has many uses, it is also an anti-inflammatory agent, hence helping in skin issues. Neem is a powerful herb that can either be ingested or applied topically. When ingested, neem has the ability to repel ticks and fleas. Neem can be applied topically in the form of oil, but it must be used in a diluted state due to its high potency. Manjistha is another herb which is not only anti-inflammatory in nature, but it is also detoxifying and purifying in nature. Tulsi has antioxidants and can help in skin issues as well.

KEEPING YOUR DOG SAFE IN THE SUMMER

There are some steps we can take to ensure that our little buddy is cool, safe, and healthy in the summer. While being indoors in an air-conditioned environment is the safest, our dogs may want to be outdoors and free. We all know how much they love to go on walks. However, for some breeds it may not be suitable to go outside in the heat and should be kept in an air conditioned room accordingly. We can provide a shaded area where our pet can enjoy the outdoors while being cool. An outdoor tub or a wet towel can help as well. Access to water and reminders to drink water are just as important. While dogs need their daily exercise, it should be avoided during the heat. An early morning or late evening walk can prove to be more suitable. However, while going outside we must remember that we wear shoes but our dogs do not. The ground must be tested either by a bare hand or a bare foot. If the ground is too hot for you to touch, it is definitely too hot for their little paws.

TREATMENT

Modern medicine suggests treating the symptoms, such as the use of antihistamines and antibiotics for allergy. The use of certain oils or medicated shampoos to soothe and help the skin is recommended. Certain soothing ointments are used for skin rashes or infections. Ensure to bathe the dogs at regular intervals, but not too often. The ideal timeline is bathing once a week with appropriate shampoos and conditioners. For ticks and fleas, proper medication and anti-tick and flea shampoos should be used. A regular deworming schedule is important in order to prevent further complications and problems. Ayurveda uses all-natural and pure herbs with strong benefits to treat skin problems in dogs. Anti-inflammatory herbs like Neem and Manjistha are used in combination with other potent herbs to create formulations which give relief and effectively treat the issue.

SAY GOODBYE TO SUMMER SCRATCHING: PRODUCTS FROM PLANET AYURVEDA THAT CAN HELP

Planet Ayurveda has some wonderful natural products which are free from additives or fillers, and are made with love. The following products when used in a consistent manner will not only help prevent the issues but also effectively treat them once they surface. The products are

1. Fur Coat Syrup
2. Derma Vet tablet
3. Tick Fighter Spray
4. Happy Fur Shampoo
5. Happy Fur Conditioner

These products help our furry friends in the following way

1. Fur Coat Syrup

The Fur Coat Syrup by Planet Ayurveda is in the form of syrup which is a blend of essential herbs such as Manjistha, Giloy, Neem, Haridra, Khadir, Pitpada, Gorakhmundi, etc. Giloy manages skin allergies and enhances skin quality, it also regenerates skin cells. Haridra (Turmeric) is well-known to manage all skin-related diseases and protect the skin from infections. Khadir prevents bleeding and tightens the skin and Gorakhmundi purifies the blood and treats chronic skin diseases.

Dosage: 10 ml of the Fur Coat Syrup should be given twice daily.

2. Derma Vet Tablet

The Derma Vet Tablet by Planet Ayurveda is a tablet which consists of Neem and Haridra. The compelling combination of these two miracle herbs leaves the skin soft and supple, free from rashes and infections. With the anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial action of both Neem and Turmeric, the Derma Vet Tablet is a must in canine skincare. It also provides a host of other benefits and promotes overall health.

Dosage: Three tablets should be given twice a day for dogs.

3. Tick Fighter Spray

The very powerful tick fighter spray by Planet Ayurveda is a topical spray which harnesses the power of Neem, Nirgundi, etc. Nirgundi soothes skin irritation and reduces itching, along with being antimicrobial in nature. Combined with the ability of Neem to keep fleas and ticks away, this tick fighter spray is assuredly an effective tool in fighting ticks or fleas.

Dosage: Apply sufficient spray on the affected area or as directed by Ayurveda Practitioner.

4. Happy Fur Shampoo

The Happy fur Shampoo by Planet Ayurveda is made of Mint extract, floral essence, Amla extract, Bhringraj extract, Basil extract, Reetha extract, Silver Claro, and loads of other natural herbs and ingredients. This powerful combination helps to keep our pet’s coat shiny, healthy, lustrous, and free from bad microbes. Bhringraj controls skin diseases and Reetha hydrates the fur coat and provides relief from itchy skin. The Happy fur Shampoo prevents hair shedding and is gentle enough for sensitive skin.

Method of Application: Apply sufficient shampoo on wet coat and gently massage from head to tail, avoiding the eyes. Rinse completely and repeat as necessary. Brush the coat to remove tangles and towel dry completely.

5. Happy Fur Conditioner

The Happy Fur Conditioner by Planet Ayurveda has all nourishing ingredients such as Vitamin E, Aloe Vera Extract, Argan Oil, Amla Extract, Bhringraj Extract, Silver Claro, etc. Aloe Vera helps to soothe the skin and argan oil moisturizes it. The Happy Fur Conditioner provides luster to the coat and nourishes the skin and coat while soothing irritated skin.

Method of Application: Apply the conditioner on a wet coat. Allow to sit for 5 to 10 minutes. Rinse thoroughly and repeat as per requirement.

CONCLUSION

The summer season can bring a range of derma issues not only to humans but also to our pets. It is important to watch out for signs and symptoms which let us know that our furry friend is going through something. There are certain preventative measures that we can take to prevent infections and heat rashes during the summer, like providing a safe environment or keeping pets in an air conditioned room, ensuring they are hydrated, and checking the problem areas on a regular basis. However, once it is evident that the dog’s fur or skin is not looking as it should be, it is vital to tackle and eliminate the ongoing issue in order to prevent further complications. Planet Ayurveda offers a range of products that can help keep the skin and fur healthy, lustrous, shiny, and overall infection-free. The formulations made from natural and pure herbs like Neem, Turmeric, Manjistha, Aloe Vera, etc. provide nourishment while fighting skin problems simultaneously. The Fur Coat Syrup and the Derma Vet tablet provide a preventative measure against such issues and also help in treating the issues. If our beloved pet is infested with ticks or fleas, the tick fighter spray will come to your rescue. Regular use of the Happy Fur Shampoo and the Happy Fur Conditioner will keep your pet happy, healthy, and itch-free!