Neem oil, native to India, is extracted from the seed kernels and bark of the neem tree by crushing the oil. It is a natural fungicide, insecticide, and pesticide with antiviral- properties for skin treatment. Neem has azadirachtin compounds that prevent vital hormone production in over 200 types of insects and parasites, causing them to starve and prevent their reproduction.
Dog parents choose neem oil as a non-toxic alternative to medications that repel fleas and ticks. Its nasty taste makes dogs less likely to lick it off their hair or fur. It also has many beneficial properties that boost dogs’ overall health and is very potent.
Neem oil’s antibacterial, antiviral, and antimicrobial properties can fight infections and microbes that cause itching. It is very potent, so dilute it before treating dogs.
Dogs benefit from neem oil because it is an excellent pesticide and insect repellent. It’s effective against mosquitoes, mites, internal parasites, fleas, and ticks. However, it does not protect against brown dog ticks or tapeworms.
Many flea and tick medicines you’d pick up from a veterinarian contain chemicals and drugs potentially harmful to dogs, especially if dogs ingest the medication by licking it off their fur. Neem oil is not toxic when used on the skin. Neem oil is harmful if consumed; it has a bitter, nasty taste and smell that prevents dogs from trying to lick it off.
Neem oil relieves itchiness from food allergies, insect bites, mange, dry spots, and chafing. Dog parents report alopecia due to severe itching, which generally clears up within a week. Additionally, when neem oil is applied regularly, it is absorbed into the bloodstream through the skin, protecting dogs from further infections or infestations for some time.
It purifies the blood, supports the liver, and improves immune system health. Some report that it also improves the health of dogs’ teeth.
Consult your veterinarian before using neem oil for your dog. Some dogs may be sensitive or allergic to it. If you see signs of an allergic reaction in your dog, including sneezing, coughing, hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, or other symptoms, you should stop using neem oil immediately.
One part neem oil mixed with ten parts grape seed or olive oil.
Some dog parents dilute neem oil every two or three days with grape seed or olive oil and dab it directly on areas where parasites are most likely to appear, including the head, ears, tail, shoulders, and flanks, to ward off infections and infestations. Apply the diluted mixture to areas of irritation, including sunburns or hot spots, for immediate relief. If the condition doesn’t clear up, you can increase the neem oil in the mixture.
Neem Oil Dog Shampoo
Mix One part of neem oil with two parts of shampoo. Mix a few minutes before use, as shampoo will make the oil inactive. Massage it into the dog’s skin and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes before rinsing.
Make a neem oil spray with one part neem oil and ten parts warm water. Mix in mild, dog-safe detergent or essential oils to mask the smell.
Make the mixture on the same day of use, as the oil will become less potent. Spray it generously all over the dog’s body.
Do not apply to open wounds, cuts, sores, or your dog’s eyes, nose, or mouth.
Neem oil washes off furniture easily. There are different qualities of neem oil. Odorless neem oil does not repel insects.
In conclusion, neem oil can be a helpful tool for dog owners looking for natural ways to improve their pet’s health. However, it’s essential to consult a veterinarian and dilute the oil properly before using it.
Neem Powder, either from the bark or leaf, can be taken internally by dogs because the leaves and bark contain compounds related to azadirachtin that are effective for pest control.
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