Protecting your Pet’s Skin in Wintery Weather

Pets’ paws are particularly sensitive.  Cold, icy weather can quickly lead to  cracks, and irritations.  Protect your pet’s paws by applying pure lavender or geranium essential oils twice daily or as often as needed.  Lavender is one of the most widely used essential oils for numerous skin conditions.  Geranium is soothing to the skinand is very gentle. properties.  If your pet has developed chapping or irritation, myrrh essential oil is a good choice.

Although each of the suggested oils may be applied neat (undiluted), it is best to begin by diluting the essential oil of your choice with fractionated coconut oil.   Simply massage the fractionated coconut oil with 1-2 drops of essential oil.  For added protection, apply an essential oil carrier oil stick directly to the paws by painting it on.   Then, massage 1-2 drops of the chosen essential oil onto the paws.  The carrier oil will maintain a protective barrier for longer lasting protection.  Essential oil carrier sticks are available from AromaTools (http://www.aromatools.com).

Many of you may be concerned about putting oils on your pet’s paws which will then be tracked all over the house, on the bed, couch, chairs, and rugs.   Pure essential oils and high quality carrier oils do not stain and are absorbed readily into the skin.   For any persistent wounds or actively bleeding injuries, please contact your veterinarian.

Mia Frezzo, DVM Dr, Frezzo is the owner of the Animal Hospital of Hasbrouck Heights.   Call 201-288-7800 today.

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