I believe that many poop shovelers have the experience of bathing their dogs. Whether it’s after playing in the park or chasing birds in the backyard, a comfortable bath can relax your dog. But have you heard of bathing dogs with Epsom salt? Yes, it's Epsom salt that is not really salt! In fact, there are many amazing truths you need to know about this brand new dog care method. In this article, we will fully explore the various benefits of Epsom salt bathing for dogs and how to properly perform Epsom salt bathing for your dog. Let's take a look! 5 amazing benefits of bathing in Epsom salt
1. Improve cardiac and neurological function
The magnesium contained in Epsom salt is a mineral that is very beneficial to dog health. Studies have confirmed that this nutrient plays a crucial role in producing cellular energy in dogs. Organelles mitochondria convert the food consumed by dogs into energy and determine which cells have died and need to be eliminated. The expert group further found that the skin of dogs can indeed absorb magnesium. Since the drug no longer needs to enter the stomach, the magnesium element can enter the blood directly.
Adequate levels of magnesium help maintain the normal function of the following functions in dogs:
• Cellular response
• Normal heart rhythm
In addition to magnesium, dogs with mitral valve lesions (MMVD) also need the following key nutrients to maintain cardiac function:
• Taurine
• Vitamin E
• Antioxidants
• Omega-3 fatty acids
• Methionine and lysine(amino acids)
2. Repairing skin problems and wounds
Magnesium works as a cofactor for many enzymes involved in protein and collagen synthesis. Nutritionists point out that in order to help dog wounds heal faster, magnesium is needed in the body. This mineral helps reduce inflammation and assists in collagen production. Not only that, magnesium is also known for its analgesic effects. So, if your dog has wounds or skin problems, you might as well let them take an Epsom salt bath.
3. Winter helps maintain body temperature
A study found that mammals like dogs appear to have lower magnesium ions in winter than in summer. This phenomenon may be caused by the effects of climate change, such as low temperatures and atmospheric pressure fluctuations. Therefore, to help regulate dogs' body temperature in winter, you can give them Epsom salt baths from time to time. The magnesium component in Epsom salt can help maintain the metabolic process in the dog's body, including enzymatic reactions.
4. Relieve symptoms of arthritis
Bathing dogs with warm Epsom saline can help relieve their symptoms of arthritis. Arthritis is a common chronic inflammatory disease that affects dog joint health, causing the cartilage between the joints to become less smooth and damaged. Elderly dogs are more likely to develop arthritis. When the surfaces of bones rub against each other and the joints become stiff and swollen, we can imagine what kind of pain they are suffering. Thankfully, a moderate amount of magnesium can relieve pain by taking Epsom salt bath.
Note: Be sure to assist older dogs in and out of the bathtub to prevent them from falling on slippery ground.
5. Relax the dog's body A study stressed that dogs need magnesium in their bodies, especially for "muscle contraction and relaxation". Experts like Singapore’s Pet Rehabilitation Centre also admire the magical effects of hydrotherapy on dogs. They use Epsom salt in the pool because Epsom salt can bring many health benefits. This trend is seen as a completely new way to deal with certain dog health problems, even fatigue. Epsom salt bath not only can deeply cleanse the skin, but most importantly, it can "improve the body's energy level and accelerate the speed of natural healing".
How to give a dog a salt bath? Just like a normal bath, you must prepare all the essentials before bathing your dog. You can first comb your dog's hair, clean out knotted or loose hair, and then start taking a bath. If your dog has skin problems or wounds, clean and trim the surrounding hair first.
Note: Be careful that your dog accidentally drinks Epsom saline, as this may cause stomach upset.
Prepare an Epsom salt bath for your dog as follows:
1. Add warm water to the bathtub and add a cup of Epsom salt per gallon of water. Tips: Before immersing your dog in water, gently wipe its wound with salt water (if any).
2. Put the dog in a bathtub with Epsom salt water. Make sure the water temperature is not too hot.
3. Scoop water on the dog with a plastic cup or any small container. Tips: It is best to let your dog sit or lie down to relax.
4. Let the dog soak in water for at least 10 minutes.
5. Carefully carry the dog out of the bathtub and immediately dry with a towel.
Soak the dog's paws with Epsom salt water
In addition to bathing the dog, you can also try soaking their paws. This helps relieve dog's painful paws.
Follow the steps below:
1. Add about 4-5 tablespoons of Epsom salt to a bowl of water and stir well. If you are using a large bowl or a small bowl, you can adjust the dosage accordingly.
2. Soak the dog's paws in Epsom salt water for at least 10 minutes.
3. Repeat this process 2 to 3 times a day for the best results.
Note: You can also apply a soft cloth or sponge soaked in Epsom salt water to the dog's wound or skin infection.
What is Epsom salt?
Epsom salt is not like the table salt used by humans. It is a naturally occurring pure mineral compound composed of magnesium and sulfates. It was first discovered in Epsom, Surrey, England.. Epsom salt is not only famous for its therapeutic properties, but is also used in the fields of beauty, home and gardening.
Although the appearance is similar to ordinary salt, Epsom salt tastes bitter and is definitely not delicious.
How does Epsom salt work in dogs?
When Epsom salt is dissolved in water, it releases magnesium ions and sulfate ions. According to VDI Labs, your pet can absorb magnesium through the skin, the largest organ in the body.
Percutaneous absorption using topical creams, oils or lotions is an effective way to increase magnesium levels in cats and dogs.
By soaking in Epsom saline, " magnesium levels can be increased without the side effects of oral supplements. Skin care products containing magnesium can also help increase the level of this mineral in dogs.
What is percutaneous absorption?
Percutaneously refers to administration through the skin. To penetrate the skin, substances must penetrate the epidermis or be absorbed by sweat glands or hair follicles.
Although many specific layers of the skin act as a barrier against bacteria and ultraviolet rays, certain substances also have difficulty penetrating the skin. However, biologically speaking, "dog's skin is thinner than human skin."
According to the veterinary doctors at VCA Animal Hospital, administration through skin may be more effective or onset faster than some oral drugs, thereby achieving better therapeutic effects. Additionally, treatment through the skin may be easier than having your dog swallow pills. Moreover, since the treatment is applied locally, dogs can also avoid the side effects caused by taking medication. The drug can still work effectively without the need for "a through the intestine and liver.
Can the medications in dogs be made in the form of percutaneous administration?
Not all medications in dogs can be made in the form of percutaneous administration. This is because treatments vary by type or severity of the dog’s health status. Some health problems cannot be solved by local treatment alone. Therefore, before giving the dog medicine, be sure to consult a veterinarian for proper evaluation.
What are the topical skin treatments for dogs?
Common topical skin treatments for dogs include:
• Sunscreen
• Repellent
• Gels or skin patches
• Deworming and lice killing products
• Fentanyl (for pain relief)
• Methimazole (for treatment of hyperthyroidism)
• Amitriptyline (for pain relief)
Should you feed your dog espionage salt?
Don't misunderstand that espionage salt is indeed beneficial to your dog. But the saying "Everything will turn back" is also very useful for us dog lovers.
Should you feed your dog espionage salt?
No, don't feed your dog espionage salt, especially large amounts of feeding. Excessive intake of this magnesium sulfate compound may lead to hypermagnesemia in dogs.
Hypermagnesemia in dogs
This condition refers to excessive magnesium content in dogs' blood, which may lead to a gradual loss of the following functions:
• Neurites
• Muscles
• Respiratory
• Cardiovascular
Symptoms of excessive magnesium in dogs
When dogs consume large amounts of Epsom salt, beware of the following symptoms:
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Paralysis
• Depression
• Cardiac arrest
• Extreme weakness
• Treatment for Hypermagnesemia in Dogs
Veterinarians may recommend giving your dog a magnesium-free diet because the purpose is to eliminate excessive magnesium in the body. In addition, the veterinarian can also recommend that you give your dog liquid and calcium therapy. Calcium can promote the excretion of magnesium from dogs.
FAQ
How long can dogs soak in Epsom salt water?
You can let your dogs soak in Epsom salt water for 10 minutes. If the dog has an open wound, gently soak the affected area, or gently wipe it with a soft cloth or a sponge. For best results, you can soak your dog's paws or wounds 2 to 3 times a day. However, if your dog's wound needs special care, be sure to consult a veterinarian in addition to soaking Epsom saline.
Is coconut oil plus Epsom salt good for dogs?
Epsom salt can be used with coconut oil to give the dog the best relaxation effect. Because coconut oil has antibacterial and healing properties, it is most suitable for combined with Epsom salt to treat wounds. However, if your dog is sensitive to this kind of thing, it is better to consult a veterinarian for safety reasons.
Can I soak my dog's paws in Epsom salt water?
You can soak my dog's paws in Epsom salt water for about 10 minutes. In addition to sootheing your dog's paws, soaking Epsom salt water can also heal the claw pad injury or scratch.
Conclusion
Snacking Epsom salt bath is definitely beneficial to dogs. Not only does it have a therapeutic effect, but you can also make Epsom salt at home, as Epsom salt is easily available on the market.
But be careful, there are limitations in dogs to use Epsom salt. Avoid letting your dog drink Epsom salt water to prevent stomach upset.