Tips And Facts About Dog Allergies Treatment

Most dog allergies present as skin problems, licking, scratching, and biting. Identifying the allergen is tricky because there are so many possibilities. Start by treating the symptoms but for long term relief proper dog allergies treatment requires a proper diagnosis. To control itching and scratching avoid or reduce your pets exposure to the allergen and treat the symptoms. Sometimes immunotherapy is needed to desensitize the dog to a common allergen that can't be avoided. A vet makes the diagnosis after a physical exam. Sometimes lab tests are required to identify a cause. Your vet may prescribe antihistamines and/or corticosteroids. Medicated shampoos and sprays provide temporary relief of itching. Food sensitivities cause itching skin, anal itching, ear inflammations, and occasionally vomiting, diarrhea, or asthma-like coughing. Allergies develop over time so don't rule out food because the dogs diet is unchanged. Many commercial foods are available to help. Finding the correct ingredients is trial and error, but once a food is found that doesn't trigger your dogs sensitivities, the new diet is as good as a cure. Many dogs are over-sensitive to flea saliva, with just 1 bite causing itching and scratching that lasts for days. Relief requires a total flea management program for you pet, your house, and your yard. Consult with a vet before getting out the chemicals. Many chemicals are more dangerous and harmful to the pet and you than flea bites. Oatmeal or medicated shampoos deliver temporary relief for itchy skin. Keep dog bedding clean. Avoid trails used by wildlife. Best to walk along sidewalks and roadways. Your pet may need antihistamines for continued comfort. Corticosteroids can provide immediate relief. Atopy (inhalant) allergies are usually the result of everyday inhalants like dust mites, pollens, and molds. Reduce exposure to dust and pollen by frequent cleaning, air cleaners, and air conditioning. Reduce mold with use of a dehumidifier and cover dirt around house plants with activated charcoal. Manage itchy skin with weekly baths using oatmeal or a medicated shampoo. Your vet may recommend a topical spray or ointment for relief from localized itching. Many antihistamines are safe for dogs, but not all. Check with a vet for safe choices and dosages. You may need to try several to find an antihistamine that works for your dog without causing drowsiness. If your dog is scratching continuously creating open sores, your vet will probably recommend corticosteroids. These are generally used for seasonal allergies or short term relief of serious allergies. They suppress the immune system so they aren't safe for prolonged use. Omega-3 is a fatty acid that acts as an anti-inflammatory by reducing the histamine and other compounds released in response to an allergen. It's safe and can be combined with antihistamines to reduce the need for corticosteroids. For chronic allergies, you vet may do skin testing to identify the cause. Shots are formulated with small extracts of the problem allergen. The pet owner is able to give regular shots to his pet from his home. This is called immunotherapy. It's very effective long term but it takes 6-12 months to start seeing the benefits. When dogs bite and scratch creating open sores, infection can enter the bloodstream, requiring antibiotics. The sooner dog allergies treatment begins, the less prescription medications like antibiotics and corticosteroids will be necessary.

I'm a dog health practitioner who specializes in dog skin care.