Just curious

[DiegoDog]

Is there any way to get a moistureizer for dogs? My dog is scratching because of the dry weather. As established earlier if anyone remembers my previous post. I just feel bad. I give him efa-z-plus on his food but I was just wondering if there was something else, like a moisturizing shampoo or something?

[opokki]

I don't know of any brands off hand but there are moisturizing shampoos and also conditioners that may help. My mother uses conditioner (formulated for dogs) on her Poodle....can't remember the brand though.

[macassie]

You can also try a shampoo formulated with hydrocortisone. Works well for my JRT who has seasonal allergies and dry skin.

[threedogmom]

Try canned pumpkin or very ripe smashed bananas in the food. I use about 1/2 can of pumpkin or 1 ripe banana a day. It really seems to help my pups when the weather changes and we have to turn on the heat

[RWDVM]

I like Relief Shampoo for this purpose. It relieves itchiness while moisturizing all naturally. I use hydrocortisone based shampoos and products only in severe cases. This is because some degree of cortisone gets absorbed systemically which could lead to health problems over time. I caution all of you not to use cortisone based products without the careful guidance of a vet. Used in the wrong way or with certain concurrent conditions, cortisone can be dangerous.

Refer to the skin care page of my veterinary advice and health management website at the web address below for my recommended approach to the itchy dog, and to learn more about Refief Shampoo. Best of luck and happy holodays!

Roger L. Welton, DVM
Veterinarian, Webmaster http://www.askdvm.com