There’s nothing worse than seeing your pup suffer from itchy, irritated paws. Allergies, environmental irritants, and insect bites can all be the cause of your dog’s discomfort. Thankfully, there are a few simple foot bath recipes that you can make at home to help provide much-needed relief for your furry friend. From oatmeal baths to baking soda soaks, here are five soothing foot bath recipes that will leave your pup happy and itch-free.
What you need to know before you start
Before you get started with any of these recipes, there are a few things you should be aware of. Although most of the ingredients used in these remedies are generally safe and non-toxic, always carry out a spot test on your pup before using – just in case they have an adverse reaction. Also, make sure all areas around the paw pads – including between the toes – are thoroughly cleaned before applying any type of cream or soak, as dirt and debris can worsen irritation. Let’s get started!
Recipe #1: Oatmeal Bath
Oatmeal contains anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe skin irritations and reduce inflammation caused by allergies or other environmental factors. To make this natural remedy for your pup’s paws
– Mix ½ cup uncooked oats with 2 cups boiling water until oats are completely dissolved. Allow to cool to lukewarm before using (about 30 minutes).
– Fill a large bowl or basin with enough lukewarm oat mixture to fit your dog’s feet comfortably without reaching the ankles.
-Soak your dog’s feet for up to 10 minutes, then gently pat them dry with a clean cloth. For extra relief, consider adding some oatmeal to his food!
Recipe #2: Apple cider vinegar soak
Apple cider vinegar is known for its antiseptic properties, which makes it a great option for relieving itching caused by allergies or cuts and scrapes! To use this method:
-Mix 1 part apple cider vinegar with 4 parts warm water in a large bowl or basin.
-Immerse your pup’s feet in the mixture and leave to soak for 5-10 minutes, depending on how sensitive their skin feels at the time (you can add more ACV/water if necessary, depending on the desired concentration).
-Once the soak is complete, pat the feet lightly dry with a clean towel or cloth before allowing them to air dry naturally (avoid direct sunlight if possible!).
Recipe #3: Coconut oil + baking soda treatment
Coconut oil has long been praised for its antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, making it ideal for treating fungal problems like athlete’s foot or bacterial infections like hot spots. To make this healing solution
-In a separate bowl, combine ¼ cup coconut oil with ¼ cup baking soda; stir until completely mixed into a paste consistency (you may need more/less depending on desired thickness).
-Gently massage the paste into the affected areas, taking care not to rub too hard as this can cause further irritation & inflammation – especially if your dog already has sensitive skin!
-Allow to soak in for about 10 minutes before rinsing off any excess with warm water and patting dry with a clean cloth – shop at Holistapet!
Recipe #4: Chamomile tea soak
Chamomile tea is commonly used in humans as a natural tranquilliser, but did you know that chamomile also contains anti-inflammatory compounds which could be beneficial when trying to relieve paw pad discomfort? Here’s how to make this simple recipe today:
-Boil 1 cup of chamomile flowers in 2 cups of filtered water – once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, then remove the pan from the heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly covered (about 10-15 minutes).
-Strain the flowers through cheesecloth, making sure no petals are left behind, then pour the remaining liquid into a medium-sized bowl – an ideal size to comfortably accommodate both feet without submerging the ankles on either side.
-Place puppy’s paws in chamomile tea and leave to soak for full time, usually about 5-7 minutes (longer or shorter depending on preference), then gently remove, wiping away excess moisture with a soft towel, avoid rubbing back and forth to avoid further irritation, potential damage to delicate tissue under fur layer Shop on Holistapet!
Recipe #5 Honey + water wash
Honey possesses natural antiseptic qualities that help relieve inflamed, raw skin surfaces due to its sticky texture and traps any dirt grime present in surrounding area preventing the spread of dangerous bacteria found environment outdoors during the summer months example ticks, fleas even mites source many common allergic reactions dogs If ready to try a solution at home follow steps below create honey wash today:
Mix equal parts of honey and filtered water, creating a thin syrup consistency. Next, refill the small bowl basin, making sure it doesn’t extend beyond the ankle area. After submerging the appendages, wait a few seconds. Start counting timer 3-5 minute mark Finish after expiration of allotted time Finally, rinse off the remaining residue with warm tap water Dry lightly after taking care to avoid rubbing directly against fur coat Shop Holistapet
