Apple Cider Vinegar: A Cure All for Your Dog
Sometimes the simplest of items that you probably have in your home already are just what you need, rather than an expensive trip to the vet. In the case of your pup, apple cider vinegar is one of those must have items. It’s been used for anything from dog skin allergies to digestion problems to preventing ear infections. Here are a few common uses:
1. Dog Skin Allergies: If you’ve got an itchy dog or one that has hot spots, try putting some apple cider vinegar in a spray bottle, dilute it with water and spray on the effected area. Do this a few times a day. Your dog should have immediate relief from the itching.
2. Re-occuring Ear Infections: Wipe your dogs ears with apple cider vinegar after cleaning. It will help prevent future infections.
3. Urinary Tract Infections: Put a small amount in your dogs food to equal out the PH balance in their urine. The ACV will equalize the acid/alkaline balance in their digestive tract. You can test the PH by using test strips. Test their urine first thing in the morning. If it’s 6.0 – 6.5, it’s perfect. If it’s higher, add ACV to their food to lower it.
4. Watery Eyes & Phlemy Cough: Add a small amount to food to help with watery eyes and to help control internal phlem production.
5. Fleas: Fleas can’t infest skin that is acidic. If you have a minor infestation or you are going somewhere that you believe there are fleas, spray your dog with a diluted mixture of ACV and water. You can also rub them down with it after a bath and let them air dry.
6. Other Misc Uses: Apple cider vinegar is used for lots of other things too. It’s been credited with helping weak muscles, joints and arthritis. Also, pimples, facial twitching and possibly the prevention of bladder and kidney stones.
Just as a disclaimer, be sure to ask your vet if using apple cider vinegar is OK with your particular dog. Each animal is different and if yours has special sensitivities, you will need to take them into account.
Category: Assorted Kibble, Dog Health