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HONEY – NOT JUST FOR POOH

August 17, 2016 | 43 Comments

TREATMENT FOR ALLERGIES

Allergies, are caused by hypersensitivity of the immune system to something in the environment that usually causes little problem in most people. Through my research, I’ve learned that allergies are quite common among the canine community.

Pooh quote

Allergies include environmental allergies such as hay fever, and food allergies, atopic dermatitis, allergic asthma, and anaphylaxis. Symptoms may include red eyes, an itchy rash, runny nose, shortness of breath, or swelling. Food intolerances and food poisoning are considered separate conditions.

If your dog shows symptoms of allergies, it is important to have them tested to find out if it is, in fact, allergies.  If so, what the allergen(s) are

Poor Henry suffers both; environmental and food allergies.  At first, it was an irritating itch which became almost constant. As well as watery, red eyes. Then came the skin irritation.  Not understanding what we were looking at, we decided we’d better have it looked at. So, off to the vet, we went.  Our usual vet was not available, and the one who saw us believed it to be ringworm.  At the height of his misery, Henry’s belly was raw with blisters and sore patches.  Immediately, we paid a visit to our vet who decided it was not ringworm. Instead, he suggested it might me Lupus – a Systemic Autoimmune Disease. Poodles are believed to have a predilection to this condition.

A biopsy was taken – the results ‘inconclusive.’ We have another appointment scheduled this week during which, I plan to to discuss the issue further.

A little blue stitch after biopsy

A little blue stitch after biopsy

It is a horrible thing knowing your companion(s) are uncomfortable and to watch them suffer.  We were prescribed  Prednisone, a corticosteroid to suppress the immune system (allergic reactions are caused by an overly active immune system).

Other common treatment options include:

  • Anti-inflammatory/immunosuppressive drugs such as NSAIDs
  • Additional immunosuppressive drugs such as Azathioprine.
  • Antibiotics to treat any secondary infections.
  • Chemotherapeutic treatments to suppress abnormal immune responses and pain.
  • Limiting exposure to sunlight.

We try to restrict the amount of medication, administering only when required. It is a known fact that prolonged use of corticosteroids has harmful side-effects . Many holistic vets do not condone overuse of steroids, especially prolonged use for chronic allergy dog patients.

We have found a holistic veterinarian in our area, and I plan to take Henry to visit the clinic. In the meantime, we researched various, natural methods to help provide some relief for Henry.

Natural allergy remedies include:

Honey:

Raw – still contains living enzymes needed to protect body from a histamine overdose

Local – contains the pollen to which the sufferers are reacting

Allergen Appropriate – If you suffer during the fall, you need to use raw, local honey that is harvested in the fall as these batches contain pollens present at this time of year.

Pollen:

The direct source! A small number of people experience a reaction to this powerful remedy, so it is important to start with just a grain. Watch for an increase in itching and redness around the eyes or other allergy symptoms. If you do not experience any issues, start to use ½-1 tsp. of pollen daily for a month before and during allergy season.

pollen

Oat & Lavender Baths:

Add oats to your dog’s bath water. Include three to four drops of 100% pure Lavender essential oil for additional soothing properties.

Alternatively, you can purchase shampoos that contain colloidal oatmeal and aloe. Aloe contains acemannan (a glycoprotein), which can produce relief from itching and inflammation. See additional point about aloe, below.

DO NOT use oats if the itching is caused by yeast infections

The grain is a carbohydrate, containing sugar, which yeast thrives on. That’s why it is so important to find out the cause of the itch before you give treatment to your dog.

If, like Henry, your dog licks or chews for relief from itching, I don’t recommend Aloe Vera Gel. Although it is a soothing, anti-inflammatory, when applied directly to a dog’s skin, aloe is also toxic for dogs, when ingested.

Better safe than sorry!

Epsom Salt Soak:

Make a ‘Paw Soak’ for itchy, and irritated paws.  Dilute Epsom Salts in cool or lukewarm water. This can also be a treat if paws are a bit sore after a long walk.

Cucumber Slices – The signature ‘SPAW’ treatment. And rightly so:

Cool cucumber slices are soothing and hydrating when applied to hot spots and itchy skin.

Make an infusion of any of the following, and spray on the affected areas. These are a great alternative to steroid creams.

Calendula: Calendula contains salicylic acid (also found in aspirin), which is pain relieving. It is also antibacterial, antifungal and contains antiviral properties. Calendula can be used topically to soothe and heal itchy, irritated, and inflamed skin.

Thyme: Thyme also has antiseptic and antifungal properties. You can make an infusion using the fresh or dried herb of thyme for mild skin infections or where yeast is commonly found (e.g. between nails).

Echinacea: Ingested, Echinacea boosts the immune system. Applied topically, the antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of this herb can soothe the skin and heal wounds.

Apple Cider Vinegar: when used as a rinse, Apple Cider Vinegar provides quick relief from itchiness caused by allergies.

Witch Hazel: an antioxidant with anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. Effective on moist, leaky, skin irritations.

I hope this information helps you through allergy season!

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Categories: HEALTH & WELLNESS Tagged: Alternative & Traditional Treatments, Dog Allergies, Health

Comments

  1. Sharon Gilbert says

    August 17, 2016 at 8:55 am

    OMD! You article is perfect for me today. Skipper our Vizsla has been having hives which was treated and now has a lump that I used espom salt warm cloth on it which started the lump to ooze. Skipper also has been losing weight since May and when I had him back in 2 weeks ago weight was down 5.5 pounds. They did not think anything about it. I have been doing for a week because we could not get into the vet no available appointments. I guess it is harder to get into a vet than a dr. So I was giving Skipper a bath with oatmeal shampoo which made him feel good for awhile. He has been licking and biting at the sore so I have a shirt on him. I told them I thought he had allergy said to give him benadryl which was not helping. I am going to try the honey. I take the bee pollen myself. Never thought about it for my dog. I am going to check in my area for a holistic dog vet. Plus Skipper had 2 doses of rabies shot because the vet forgot to put it down and of course didn’t charge me and told her yes you gave him the shot 3 months ago…said he needs a rabies shot and he would not hurt him. I think it might be time to find another vet. Thank You for the blog today! Very helpful for me.

    Reply
    • Sadie says

      August 18, 2016 at 7:45 am

      Hi Sharon. I hope you do find a vet that is able to help with Skipper’s discomfort.

      It’s scary when those we trust make such careless mistakes – our vet always refers to our file when we visit. I’m not a fan of vaccinations and my vet is one that will only do what he feels absolutely necessary.

      Also, I hope the new vet will look at the lump to determine allergies. Perhaps it is a ‘sebaceous cyst.’ Those are quite common and can become irritated. I’m not a vet – just a person who has had plenty of experiences with her dogs.

      I hope Skipper feels better soon! Please come back and let us know how you get on with your new vet.

      Reply
  2. Tenacious Little Terrier says

    August 19, 2016 at 5:36 pm

    That looks awful. I’m glad you found things that help. Mr. N has a flea allergy but he usually only gets flare ups a couple times a year and it passes.

    Reply
    • Sadie says

      August 25, 2016 at 10:06 am

      I’m looking forward to hearing what the holistic vet says.

      Reply
  3. Rachel says

    August 19, 2016 at 6:37 pm

    Great info provided here, thank you! I hope Henry feels better. It’s so hard to see our pets in pain or discomfort.

    Reply
    • Sadie says

      August 25, 2016 at 10:07 am

      Thanks Rachel. Yes, I feel awful!

      Reply
  4. Sherri Telenko says

    August 19, 2016 at 6:42 pm

    Wow. That looks extreme. I hope you find the reason for the reaction. I didn’t know that about aloe vera – good to know. My schnoodle goes through stages of excessive itching. I’m finding, at least this week, that Lucy’s leave-in coat conditioner is helping. He doesn’t like the scents, though I do. I’m hoping it’s still working next week, and not a fluke. If it does work… there’s a post in the future.
    Sherri Telenko recently posted…Travel Las Vegas: Top 10 SuperZoo SpotsMy Profile

    Reply
    • Sadie says

      August 25, 2016 at 10:07 am

      Fingers x’d for you – look forward to reading the post.

      Reply
  5. The Daily Pip says

    August 20, 2016 at 8:20 am

    Wow, I’m totally going to save this post. So many wonderful ideas. I’m actually going to try the cucumber slices today!
    The Daily Pip recently posted…Calling All Specials!My Profile

    Reply
    • Sadie says

      August 25, 2016 at 10:08 am

      Thank you. I hope the cucumber slices are a hit!

      Reply
  6. Jane says

    August 20, 2016 at 8:50 am

    Isn’t honey such a wonderful gift from Mother Nature? I love finding local honey for sale at festivals in our area.

    I’m glad you were able to get to the bottom of Henry’s symptoms and hopefully everything is on the uphill swing now.
    Jane recently posted…The Life of Pets With AllergiesMy Profile

    Reply
    • Sadie says

      August 25, 2016 at 10:09 am

      Thanks Jane. Yes, honey and so many other delights.

      Reply
  7. Jana Rade says

    August 20, 2016 at 2:15 pm

    If our guys had issues with allergies, I’d definitely try raw local honey.
    Jana Rade recently posted…Veterinary Visit Checklist: Part 2 Before You Leave the OfficeMy Profile

    Reply
    • Sadie says

      August 25, 2016 at 10:09 am

      I’m glad you don’t have to deal with allergies. Honey is a yummy treat regardless 🙂

      Reply
  8. ruth and layla says

    August 20, 2016 at 2:51 pm

    Fantastic post thank you thank you thank you and am gonna get some raw honey this week

    Reply
    • Sadie says

      August 25, 2016 at 10:10 am

      I’m glad you liked it. You (and crew) will enjoy the honey.

      Reply
  9. Lola The Rescued Cat says

    August 20, 2016 at 6:53 pm

    We love hearing about natural remedies. This is a great post!
    Lola The Rescued Cat recently posted…Rescue Stories: Olive – It Was Love at First SightMy Profile

    Reply
    • Sadie says

      August 25, 2016 at 10:11 am

      Thanks Lola!

      Reply
  10. Cathy Armato says

    August 21, 2016 at 1:11 pm

    Poor Henry, I sure hope his allergies can be relieved soon. He must be so miserable. Very interesting holistic remedies, thanks for sharing!
    Love & Biscuits,
    Dogs Luv Us and We Luv Them

    Reply
    • Sadie says

      August 25, 2016 at 10:11 am

      He is. Hopefully the holistic vet will have some good news for us. Thank you.

      Reply
  11. Maureen says

    August 21, 2016 at 4:48 pm

    Your poor pup. Rosa has terrible allergies too and I had her tested to find out what all is affecting her. (environmental & food) but now I know what she can and can’t eat. It’s so helpful! I love all you suggestions too. Very helpful.
    Maureen recently posted…Does Your Dog Have A Toxic Environment?My Profile

    Reply
    • Sadie says

      August 25, 2016 at 10:12 am

      Thanks Maureen. I remember you posting about the tests. I plan to ask the holistic vet about that.

      Reply
  12. Tonya Wilhelm says

    August 21, 2016 at 5:23 pm

    Poor Henry. You are such a good Mom. Seeing a holistic vet for allergies is a great idea. Holistic vets really do tend to look at the whole picture and results are usually pretty amazing. We do not have a local holistic vet, so we started with a phone consultation with one, the best move I ever made for Dexter! Please feel free to reach out if you ever need a referral. <3

    Reply
    • Sadie says

      August 25, 2016 at 10:02 am

      Thank you Tonya. I try. This picture makes it look as though Henry is NOT cared for. That was the condition at it’s worst. We have been trying different things and it has settled. Henry is still itchy. Hopefully the holistic vet will come up with something for my poor little man.

      Reply
  13. Robin says

    August 21, 2016 at 10:46 pm

    These are great solutions! I’m sorry that your dog has suffered with such difficult immune system issues. As a human with an autoimmune disease, I know how hard it is to deal with the strange medical problems that pop up. I think natural solutions are a great way to go. I don’t know if it is true for dogs too, but many human medications just make immune reactions get worse. It is frustrating.
    Robin recently posted…Funny Cat Picture: Mystery EarsMy Profile

    Reply
    • Sadie says

      August 25, 2016 at 10:13 am

      So true Robin. I am looking forward to our consult with the holistic vet.

      Reply
  14. Sweet Purrfections says

    August 22, 2016 at 12:30 am

    Your poor dog. I know my mom’s dog has allergies and they don’t know exactly what is causing his problems.
    Sweet Purrfections recently posted…Bring Your Cat to the Vet Day #askyourvetMy Profile

    Reply
    • Sadie says

      August 25, 2016 at 10:14 am

      I plan to share our experience with the holistic vet – hopefully that will help others.

      Reply
  15. Valerie Desmet says

    August 22, 2016 at 3:20 am

    Great article!! Charlie has a grass allergy and when it’s acting up again, an oatmeal bath helps him to relieve the itching! Allergies are the worst 🙁

    Reply
    • Sadie says

      August 25, 2016 at 9:59 am

      Thanks Valerie. Grass is a challenge – how do you prevent them coming in contact, or eating grass?!

      Reply
  16. Talent Hounds says

    August 22, 2016 at 9:14 am

    Oh no -poor Henry. Hope you find out exactly what is causing such discomfort. I have allergies and my husband has started keeping bees not too far away so I’ll be trying my own local honey soon. Kilo has not shown any signs yet but I may try the bath and the cucumber on his paws and nose as they get a little dry sometimes.
    Talent Hounds recently posted…Do You Know The Most Talented Trick Dogs In The World?My Profile

    Reply
    • Sadie says

      August 25, 2016 at 10:15 am

      How cool that you’re going to be a bee-keeper! I love coconut oil on paws/nose too.

      Reply
  17. Spencer the Goldendoodle says

    August 22, 2016 at 3:44 pm

    Thank you so much for this great post! I never knew pups could have honey!
    Spencer the Goldendoodle recently posted…Wild, Wet Weekend at a Doodle RompMy Profile

    Reply
    • Sadie says

      August 25, 2016 at 10:15 am

      They LOVE it. PB and honey on banana OMD!!!

      Reply
  18. Carol Bryant says

    August 22, 2016 at 9:40 pm

    I love this post and that you told folks about the benefits. We used honey as a cough expectorant when Dex had a horrible case of kennel cough last year. It is the pure stuff that was not overly processed that rocked.

    Reply
    • Sadie says

      August 25, 2016 at 10:17 am

      Thanks for sharing that use for honey too! Kennel cough is no fun, I’m glad the honey worked.

      Reply
  19. Katie J. Ewing says

    September 8, 2016 at 9:46 am

    Thank you very much for your useful post. Some shared information I have not ever know before. Honey is totally a great product from nature.

    Reply
    • Sadie says

      September 9, 2016 at 9:34 am

      …and the dogs love this sweet nectar.

      Reply
  20. Monica Dingess says

    October 3, 2016 at 4:15 am

    Thanks a lot for sharing! It’s really informative post. I don’t know that much about benefits of honey. Now I know and agree with the saying “Honey’s not just for pooh”
    Monica Dingess recently posted…How Many Teeth Does An Adult Dog Have?My Profile

    Reply
    • Sadie says

      October 4, 2016 at 3:19 pm

      Thanks Monica!

      Reply
  21. Diana says

    December 16, 2016 at 4:59 pm

    Thank you very much for the post I find it very helpful. I have known that there are many ways to treat dog’s allergy, especially with honey. Definitely going to try that.
    Diana recently posted…Solid Gold Cat Food ReviewMy Profile

    Reply
    • Sadie says

      December 21, 2016 at 10:15 am

      …and honey is a treat!

      Reply
  22. Aca Baranton says

    December 15, 2020 at 4:22 am

    You have chosen the right medication for Henry. Too much of steroids do have harmful side effects. Going natural is the best, I have heard a lot about the beneficial effects an oatmeal-aloe shampoo has on the skin. So I think it is worth trying.
    Aca Baranton recently posted…Are Essential Oils Safe For Cats?My Profile

    Reply

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