FAD

Question
I have written an article on Flea Allergy Dermatitis, but would love to have some quotes if it goes to publication. So, the question I would ask is what would you advise an owner with a dog who suffers FAD? Is there any research ongoing to develop a cure for such an affliction? And what are the worst case scenarios if a dog is left untreated?

Answer
Over the last couple of years I have realized the benefit of using Comfortis (spinosad) in flea allergic dogs.  These FAD dogs are allergic to the proteins in flea saliva.  Comfortis limits  the number of bites on the skin and that decreases the FAD reaction significantly better than the topical flea medications.

Steroids are still the hallmark of treatment in reducing the dog's allergic reaction to flea bites. Self mutilation leads to infections and sores that develop without the use of steroids.  I personally find that using a longer acting steroid, like dexamethasone (rather than prednisone) works better to allow the skin to decrease the allergic reaction and to heal faster.

Left untreated, flea allergy dermatitis leads to significant skin changes including thickening of the skin and increased glandular secretion leading to increased odors.