If dogs had their way they'd always be running through woods, swimming in muddy ponds and rolling in something really stinky. After all this fun it's bath time again. After shampooing, soothe your dog's skin and make his coat shine with a conditioning rinse of oatmeal, rosemary and peppermint.
Step 1
Grind oatmeal in the blender, food processor or kitchen mill into a flour-like consistency. Scrape the sides of the grinder often to ensure all the oatmeal flakes are finely ground.
Step 2
Mix 1 cup of ground oatmeal with 2 cups of water in the saucepan. Add rosemary and cook over medium heat for two to three minutes. Steep for 10 minutes. Stir in the aloe vera gel, jojoba oil and peppermint essential oil. Cool the mixture to body temperature, or lukewarm. Apply a small amount to your dog's skin to test for an allergic reaction.
Step 3
Pour oatmeal mixture into the spray bottle using the funnel. Spritz your dog's body until thoroughly soaked, making sure not to get any into his eyes. Massage gently and thoroughly into the coat and skin.
Step 4
Leave the mixture on for 10 minutes. Rinse well and towel-dry. Let your dog thoroughly dry in a warm place away from drafts, or blow-dry her with a handheld hair dryer on low heat setting.
References
- Organic Pet Digest: Dog Aromatherapy Provides Natural Relief
- Optimum Choices: Animals and Safe Aromatherapy
- The Herbs Place: Essential Oil Recipes
- The Complete Book of Essential Oils & Aromatherapy; Valerie Ann Worwood; 1991
- The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils; Julia Lawless; 1995
Resources
Tips
- Store leftover conditioner in the refrigerator.
- This conditioning rinse may be used after every bath and in between baths to keep your best friend sparkling clean and shiny.
- You can substitute many other essential oils, such as calendula, chamomile, lavender and sweet orange, for peppermint. Lavender and chamomile are both calming for hyper dogs.
Warnings
- Do not use oatmeal conditioners on dogs with grain allergies.
- Never use this conditioning rinse on cats (they are overly sensitive to essential oils).
- Do not apply this rinse to pregnant dogs.
- Only use high-quality, therapeutic-grade peppermint or other essential oils.
- Do not use any product containing rosemary on dogs prone to seizures and epilepsy.
Writer Bio
Based in Ontario, Susan Dorling has written professionally since 2000, with hundreds of articles published in a variety of popular online venues. Writing on a diverse range of topics, she reflects her passion for business, interior design, home decorating, style, fashion and pets.