Mark's Guide to The Benefits of Coconut Oil for Pets
The Benefits of Coconut Oil for Dogs and other pets, too!
Animal House Bridport have found the following information from Dr Karen Becker really helpful and informative and are happy to share it with you.
https://healthypets.mercola.com/coconut-oil-for-dogs.aspx
Coconut oil is a concentrated source of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), it is also a rich source of lauric acid, which is a powerful antimicrobial agent. Coconut oil has anti-fungal and antibacterial properties as well.
It can have profound benefits for your dog's skin health, digestion, brain function, nutrient absorption and thyroid function. Almost all senior dogs, have issues with their skin and toenails. Part of the problem can be Cushing’s disease and hypothyroidism, but it’s also simply a fact that as pets, the skin tends to get flaky and the nails tend to get funky.
Reasons why coconut oil may benefit your dog
It improves skin health, and clears up conditions like flea allergies, eczema, itchy skin and contact dermatitis.
It helps heal and relieve cuts, hot spots, wounds, stings and bites.
It moisturises dry skin and gives your pet's coat a shiny gleam.
It reduces doggy odour and doggy breath.
It helps prevents yeast infections, particularly candida.
Dogs suffering from kennel cough may recover faster with coconut oil.
It improves nutrient absorption and digestion. It may cause loose stools, though, so moderation is a good idea to begin with.
It can help reduce your dog's risk of diabetes by regulating your pet's insulin levels. It may also moderate thyroid function and keep infections and heart disease at bay.
Coconut oil promotes mobility in arthritic dogs and those with joint issues.
It can benefit brain health and may be helpful for senior dogs whose minds are starting to become "cloudy."
You can manage skin and nail issues with weekly baths followed by coconut oil treatments. Coconut oil helps reduce flaking and improves the integrity of the skin. It also supports the lipid barrier, which makes skin healthier and more resistant to pathogens. This treatment is quite simple.
How to use Coconut Oil
Just scoop the oil from the container and apply it to your pet like a mask, ensuring to coat every inch of skin and nails, especially problem areas. Allow the mask to absorb into the skin for five minutes or so, and feel free to let your pet lick the oil as you wait. After about five minutes, do a light application of shampoo, and another light rinse. Coconut oil treatments leave “old man” skin incredibly soft and in a healthier condition, and we’re sure it will do the same for your pet! We highly recommend this to any pet parent who has a senior dog struggling with the same problems.
