When Considering Dog Allergies Treatment

Some people may not realize that animals suffer from allergies, just like humans. However, your pet's symptoms are different; therefore, may sometimes go unnoticed. One of the most common symptom's in dogs is skin irritations. There are a few things you should know when considering dog allergies treatment.

First of all, the most common signs that a dog is suffering from allergies are itching and skin irritations. You may notice him or her chewing or scratching excessively, and rubbing his or her face on the carpet. The skin may also appear red and dry in some areas, due to excessive scratching and chewing. There may also be hair loss, which may be patchy and erratic.

If your dog is exposed to allergens, he or she may be more prone to ear infections as well. A wax producing gland in the ear starts to overproduce, when allergens are present. This response creates an ideal breeding ground for bacteria and yeast.

Although avoidance is recommended, you may not know which allergen is the culprit. Common irritants for dogs are food additives, pollen, flea bites, and dust mites. Eliminating one possible source at a time may take too long to give your pet the relief he or she needs. In this case, you may want to ask your doctor about performing an allergy test for your dog.

If eliminating the irritants is not a plausible option, you may be interested in looking into a form of topical therapy. Several shampoos and conditioners, as well as lotions and other ointments are available. This may only give your pet a temporary relief; however, so you should bathe him or her about two times per week, when using this method. If outdoor allergens are a concern, it may help to wipe your pet's feet, upon entering the home.

Fish oil based Omega-3 fatty acids have also been shown to help reduce symptoms. Fortunately, adding these to your pet's diet poses little risk of side effects. If this does not seem to be enough to tackle the problem; however, you may want to speak with your Veterinarian about the addition of antihistamines. Because there are several forms of antihistamines, with varying degrees of side effects, it is best to consult your Vet before adding this to the treatment plan.

Other possible options in managing the problem are injections and steroids. These are usually a last resort option, as the side effects can vary greatly. If injections are necessary, your pet will have to undergo an allergy test. Based on the results, a custom injection can be ordered by your Vet. Steroids are available in both injectable and tablet form, but you need to ask about the potential side effects before electing that option.

Don't forget that seeking the advice of a Veterinarian is always recommended, when you have any medical concerns regarding your pet. If you recognize any of these symptoms in your dog's behavior, you may want to schedule an appointment to discuss suggested dog allergies treatment with your pet's doctor.