I was concerned about my five-year-old Maltese, Heidi, because her skin seemed dry and flaky, and her coat did not seem as full and silky as usual. Initially, I was not that troubled much for I thought it was just because of the dryness in the house during the winter months. But it did not clear up. Actually, it even got worse. Pet Pain Relief

Heidi sleeps next to me every night but her irritation reached the point that she scratch so intensely and wake me up. When your baby is suffering in pain, it is really difficult to get a full-night’s sleep.

Dr. Ava Frick, our veterinarian asked me if I might possibly be bathing Heidi too often or using the wrong shampoo during Heidi’s appointment when I mentioned about her irritation. Although both are common reasons for a dog to incur skin irritation, but I use a very mild shampoo and do not bathe Heidi that often.

As I am diligent about preventing fleas from ever becoming a problem, it is out of the question. She only goes outside to play a bit each day and relieve herself and I am cautious enough to have the yard treated in order to prevent fleas.

Having those possibilities ruled out, Dr. Frick and I had an interesting discussion regarding how essential fatty acids are necessary to a dog’s healthy coat. Although I thought I was making the best choices when purchasing her food and treats, I was quite worried about the possibility of Heidi having deficiency in her diet.

I have learned that healthy fats are essential in keeping a dog’s coat in good shape. The proper nutrients to support healthy skin and coat is not provided by low-quality commercial dog food. Improperly balanced homemade dog foods often lack proper nutrition.

Omega-3 also provides benefits to dog’s skin for its anti-inflammatory effects. They are beneficial to dogs with allergies or other inflammatory skin diseases. They are great since they can also lessen itchiness as most dogs irritate their skin by excessive scratching.

Dr Frick suggested some changes to Heidi’s diet, including the addition of supplements. She said that I should start to see some improvement in Heidi’s skin and coat within about six weeks of starting Omega-3 supplementation, and she was exactly right.

My dog’s skin and coat are prettier than ever. Best of all, Heidi no longer deals with irritation that led her to excessive scratching. Animal Chiropractic