How to Apply Calendula Extract to Dogs

Calendula extract is an herbal remedy derived from Calendula officinalis, the pot marigold plant. Calendula is nontoxic to dogs, according to the ASPCA's listing of toxic and nontoxic plants. Some people use the extract to treat health problems that cause discomfort for their pets. The method of applying calendula extract is determined by the condition being treated. Please consult your veterinarian before using calendula extract and other herbal remedies for your dog.

Calendula extract is used as a topical ointment that can be applied directly to a dog's dry skin after trimming the fur and cleaning the area where a dog has been scratching, licking and chewing persistently. When applied gently to affected skin twice a day with cotton swabs, calendula extract soothes itchy, inflamed skin and provides a pet with much-needed relief. Wear and tear causes dogs' paw pads to become sore and rough. Mixing calendula, olive oil and other herbs can create an ointment to soothe your dog's painful pads after your veterinarian has examined your dog.

Dogs who suffer from itchy or flaky skin may benefit from having a canine conditioner or rinse applied to their skin. Natural and herbal conditioners for dogs contain a variety of ingredients, such as calendula extract, vitamin A, omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, kava extract and mango. Calendula extract’s natural anti-inflammatory attributes help rehydrate a dog’s skin and replace some of the natural oils lost during shampooing, according to Vet Info. After a bath, pat your dog with a soft, clean towel, but avoid rubbing.

Hotspots and eczema cause dogs to have very itchy skin, which leads to inflammation, lesions and general discomfort. When microbes, such as bacteria or fungi, can damage a dog's skin and cause “hotspots.” Dogs suffering from hotspots incessantly scratch and lick the painful patches of skin, and this can cause the infection to spread and a dog’s condition to worsen, according to Vet Info. Calendula tea rinse, a natural remedy that soothes hotspots, can reduce your dog’s compulsion to scratch. To create the rinse, add a few drops of calendula extract or a handful of calendula flower petals to hot water. After the tea rinse cools, gently apply it to the affected skin twice a day.

Calendula tincture is made up of calendula extract and water. The treatments are applied externally as lotions, sprays, soaks and washes to treat ailments and symptoms that affect dogs. Calendula extract’s astringent and antibacterial qualities help fight skin infections when combined with water. To treat canine acne, apply the solution with cotton balls twice a day to soak the affected areas. The same application can be sprayed on cuts and scrapes to encourage wounds to heal. Calendula also has properties that soothe and heal mouth ulcers, according to The Dog Health Guide. Dilute the extract in warm water and apply calendula-soaked gauze directly to your dog’s gums. Continue applying the calendula extract tincture to ease oral pain, help prevent infection, lessen bleeding and promote healing of your dog's mouth.