Dry Skin Nutritional Treatment
Certain skin conditions in dogs (and occasionally cats) can result in scurfy, scaly skin, which is not only unsightly but can be itchy and prone to infections. Thyroid imbalances, fungal infections, and allergies are among the many causes for this problem. Essential fatty acid and vitamin/mineral supplementation is often recommended by veterinary dermatologists, to help the skin's healing process, by supplying essential nutrients. You may either purchase a supplement containing these ingredients in capsule form or you may make a modified version by combining equal parts of vegetable oil (extra virgin olive oil is best) with melted lard or bacon fat - the animal portion of this mixture MUST come from pigs. For a dog under 20 lbs., the maximum amount of fat mixture added shouldn’t exceed 1/4 teaspoon total, 20lbs. and up, give 1/2 teaspoon maximum. A cat should receive 1/8 teaspoon per day. **Start with a small amount-diarrhea, pancreatitis and weight gain may result with overdosing.**