Becky’s Fabulous Dog and People Shampoo: A Soothing, Flea-Discouraging Wash

The first time I made this shampoo, I was skeptical. I’d always purchased commercially made dog washes, with their promises of shiny coats and happy pups. My golden retriever, Gus, however, had other ideas. He was perpetually itchy, scratching himself raw despite regular baths. It was heartbreaking. I was at my wits end, until my friend Becky suggested her homemade recipe. The blend of oatmeal and essential oils seemed almost too simple to be effective, but I was willing to try anything. The difference, after just one wash, was remarkable. Gus scratched less, his coat looked healthier, and best of all, he seemed so much more comfortable. I even tried it myself, and was amazed! It’s been a staple in our household ever since, and I’m thrilled to share it with you.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yields: 1 shampoo
• Serves: 12 (Number of washes will vary depending on hair length)
• Dietary Type: Natural, Homemade

Ingredients

• 1 cup old fashioned oatmeal
• ½ cup dry milk
• ¼ cup corn starch
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• ¼ cup baking soda
• 2 tablespoons food-grade diatomaceous earth
• ½ cup apple cider vinegar
• 10 drops eucalyptus oil
• 10 drops tea tree oil
• ¼ cup coconut oil
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 1 tablespoon raw honey
• Filtered water

Equipment Needed

• Food processor or coffee grinder
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. Begin by grinding the old fashioned oatmeal. Place it into a food processor and process until it reaches a very fine powder. Achieving a fine consistency is crucial to prevent oatmeal pieces from clinging to the hair after washing. If you don’t have a food processor, a coffee grinder works well. Ensure the grinder is thoroughly cleaned before and after use, especially if you grind coffee with strong flavors.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine all the dry ingredients: the finely ground oatmeal, dry milk, corn starch, turmeric powder, baking soda, and diatomaceous earth. Mix thoroughly to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed. This step is essential for a consistent shampoo.
3. Next, add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture, excluding the water. These include the apple cider vinegar, eucalyptus oil, tea tree oil, coconut oil, olive oil, and raw honey. Stir until everything is well combined. The mixture will become thick and pasty.
4. Now, gradually add the filtered water until you achieve a shampoo-like consistency. Start with ¼ cup of water and add more slowly, mixing continuously. It is important to test the consistency both with your fingers and visually. The goal is a smooth, pourable shampoo that isn’t too runny.
5. To use, wet the hair thoroughly. Apply the shampoo and massage it into the scalp and coat. For flea control, leave the shampoo on for approximately five minutes before rinsing.
6. Rinse thoroughly with clean water until all traces of the shampoo are removed. Ensure no residue remains, as this can cause irritation or dryness.
7. Finally, although the individual ingredients don’t require refrigeration, I recommend refrigerating the combined shampoo to extend its shelf life.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Oatmeal Grinding: Achieving a truly fine grind on the oatmeal is key. Run it through the food processor or coffee grinder multiple times, checking the consistency after each pulse.
• Essential Oil Safety: While eucalyptus and tea tree oils are generally safe for dogs and humans in diluted forms, always perform a patch test before widespread use. Apply a small amount to a discreet area of skin and observe for any adverse reactions. If irritation occurs, discontinue use.
• Coconut Oil Consistency: Depending on the temperature, coconut oil can be solid or liquid. If solid, gently warm it in a double boiler or microwave it briefly until melted. Allow it to cool slightly before adding it to the mixture.
• Honey for Moisture: Raw honey adds moisture and shine. However, it can be sticky. Ensure it is well incorporated into the shampoo to prevent clumps.
• Turmeric Considerations: Turmeric’s dyeing properties are something to keep in mind. While it can enhance warm tones in blonde or brown hair, it may stain lighter colors. If you’re concerned about staining, omit it or reduce the quantity.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This shampoo is meant for topical use, not for consumption. Store the finished shampoo in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for approximately 2-3 weeks. Discard if you notice any changes in smell, color, or consistency.

Nutritional Information

Please note that due to the nature of this product (a shampoo and not a food), precise nutritional information is difficult to calculate. The following is a rough estimate based on the ingredients:

Nutrient	Amount per Serving (Approximate)	% Daily Value (Approximate)
Calories	139 kcal	N/A
Total Fat	10.9 g	N/A
Saturated Fat	5.5 g	N/A
Cholesterol	5.2 mg	N/A
Sodium	1298.4 mg	N/A
Total Carbohydrate	8.3 g	N/A
Dietary Fiber	0.7 g	N/A
Sugars	3.6 g	N/A
Protein	2.3 g	N/A

• Daily Value percentages are estimates and may vary based on individual dietary needs.

Variations & Substitutions

• Essential Oil Alternatives: Lavender, chamomile, and rosemary essential oils can be substituted for eucalyptus or tea tree oil. Each has unique properties and scents.
• Herbal Infusions: For added benefits, infuse the water with herbs like calendula or chamomile before adding it to the shampoo.
• Gluten-Free Option: Ensure the cornstarch used is certified gluten-free for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Vegan Option: Replace the dry milk with a plant-based alternative, such as powdered coconut milk or soy milk. Substitute the raw honey with agave nectar or maple syrup.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use this shampoo on puppies or young children?
A: It is best to consult with a veterinarian or pediatrician before using this shampoo on puppies, young children, or individuals with sensitive skin. The essential oils may be too strong for them.

Q: How often should I use this shampoo?
A: Use this shampoo as needed, but avoid over-washing. Excessive washing can strip the hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness. Once every 1-2 weeks is generally sufficient.

Q: Can I leave the shampoo on for longer than five minutes for flea control?
A: While leaving the shampoo on for a longer duration may seem like it would offer better flea control, it is generally not recommended. Prolonged exposure can cause skin irritation. Stick to the recommended five minutes.

Q: How do I know if my dog is allergic to any of the ingredients?
A: Before using the shampoo on your entire dog, perform a patch test. Apply a small amount to a discreet area and wait 24 hours to check for any signs of allergic reaction, such as redness, itching, or swelling.

Q: Can I use regular table salt instead of baking soda?
A: No, do not substitute table salt for baking soda. Baking soda has mild abrasive and deodorizing properties that make it suitable for shampoo, while table salt can be harsh and irritating to the skin.

Final Thoughts

I hope you and your furry (or not-so-furry) friends enjoy this homemade shampoo as much as we do! It’s a simple, natural way to care for your skin and coat while discouraging those pesky fleas. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different essential oils to find your favorite scent. And I would love to hear about your experience – please share your feedback and any variations you try. Happy washing!