Itchy Dog – Natural Jack Russell Terrier Treatment Concepts
Canine atopic dermatitis is extremely common in Jack Russell Terriers. This terrible skin condition causes severe inflammation, redness and itchy skin. Itchy skin causes constant scratching and constant itching. An itchy Jack Russell Terrier will chew on the legs and scratch the belly, groin and armpit (axilla). Ear problems are also common.
In order to understand how natural treatment can be helpful and effective, it is important to know a little about the anatomy of the skin and what is wrong with canine atopic dermatitis. In the itchy jack russell terrier with atopy, there is a skin barrier deficiency. Skin cells are bound together by ceramide. This outer barrier of skin cells and ceramide is a bit like a brick wall with bricks held together with mortar. In dogs with atopy, ceramide is deficient in a protein called sphingosine, so the “coat” breaks down. This imperfect skin barrier is permeable. Water comes out of the skin, making it very dry. Allergens are able to pass through the skin barrier, triggering the immune system and causing a terrible itchy rash.
Products that wash away the damaged skin barrier will make the problem worse. Shampoo with soaps and surfactants should be avoided. Products that are drying or acidic will dry out and damage the skin further. Products like tea tree oil are commonly marketed as natural remedies for itchy skin. Putting an acidic product like tea tree oil on a dog with atopic dermatitis is like putting gasoline on fire.
There are some natural products that make a huge difference though.
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