Dry skin in pets is especially common in winter months. When the humidity levels outside are low and the weather is cold and dry, the moisture in the skin evaporates more quickly. You may find your pet’s coat will feel dry and its skin may feel tight and even flaky. In fact, their skin can lose 25% of its ability to hold moisture in the winter. Windy weather can also beat down on your pet’s skin and cause chapping.
Many pet parents will choose to bring pets indoors in the colder months to keep them out of the elements. However, indoor heaters also dry out their skin and can cause itching.
Here are a few helpful hints for some dry skin relief:
Some have found using humidifiers indoors overnight is helpful for pets’ dry skin, and pets benefit from the moisture as well.
Brushing regularly helps remove dirt, dead hair and tangles; plus, brushing stimulates circulation in the skin and distributes the natural oils.
Using a moisturizing shampoo, like Earthbath’s Oatmeal Shampoo, helps lock in moisture. Four Paws Avocado Shampoo adds moisture. Remember to shampoo less often in winter so you do not inadvertently dry the skin out more. If your pet is having excessive dry itching in the winter months, try AromaCare’s Coconut Milk conditioner, which can be used as a leave-in as well as a traditional rinse-out conditioner.
Feeding your dog food like AvoDerm provides additional nutrients that address skin and coat needs. AvoDerm contains avocado oils, which have proven to be highly effective in supplying the skin with many health benefits while adding moisture to prevent dry itchy skin and coat issues.
Olsen’s Stores carries all of the items suggested here to help keep your pets more comfortable all winter long! QCBN
By Lisa Dunn
Lisa Dunn has worked for Breeders Choice LLC, for more than 25 years. She has owned horses and dogs all her life and has ridden in a few types of competition. She says she loves being part of an organization that puts the animal’s health before profits, and feels privileged to participate in advertising, marketing, sales, educating and territory management.