Dogs and Sebaceous Cysts
Answered by: Kerry Hackett
Question from: Angela Meloche
Posted on: April 02, 2006

I have a Norwegian Elkhound who suffers terribly from sebaceous cysts. Some rupture/extrude some remain as lumps. I have checked with my veterinarian and they are not tumors. Conventional therapies are not working, and though I have had some limited success with TeaTree Oil on the ones that do rupture, I was wondering if there may be some alternatives I might try topically or supplements that I could feed her to alleviate the condition somewhat?

The following is based on the assumption that your dog does indeed have sebaceuos cysts and not some other form of non-cancerous cyst. Sebaceous cysts are due to a blockage in the sebaceous gland duct, leading to its associated hair follicle. These obstructions are often made up of fat and appear as moveable bumps under the skin. Sebaceous cysts can often be prevented through the use of a homemade diet. Please see Richard Pitcairn’s "Natural Health for Dogs and Cats", "The Complete Herbal Handbook for the Dog and Cat" by Juliette de Bairacli Levy and "The Barf Diet" by Ian Billinghurst. for recipe ideas. In addition., you can make up a Calendula (Calendula officinalis) fomentation to dry and heal the area. This can be done by brewing a strong infused tea of Calendula flowers and strain. Dip a clean cotton cloth in the tea and apply to the affected area twice a day, each time as long as your dog will allow. Internally, she can also take Calendula as well as Cleavers (Galium aparine) infused tea at 1 teaspoon per 30 pounds of body weight twice a day.

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