Some Effective Approaches For Dog Allergies Treatment

A range of choices for dog allergies treatment are available, which collectively serve as remedies for the four most common causes. Similar symptoms characterize the allergic reactions from all the sources of this disorder. For the majority of pets, the standard remedies taken are effective in controlling symptoms. Steroids or immunotherapy exist for the exceptions that do not respond to the regular approaches.

The two most common causes of allergic reactions are atopic, or inhalants, mainly dust mites, pollen, mold and mildew, and allergens that are present in flea saliva. The symptoms of an allergy are most commonly caused from inhaling an antigen, or a substance which causes the production of antibodies. Studies show that in excess of 40 percent of canines react to the offending substances in flea bites.

Other less prevalent causes are allergic reactions to food or of the skin. Skin problems include the mange and ringworm, which are fungal infections. A pet exhibiting bad reactions to a food is usually allergic to one of the main ingredients found in most dog foods. Allergic and irritant contact dermatitis are two other rarely occurring skin conditions that may be caused by contact with substances that provoke a reaction or from irritating chemicals.

Complicating a specific diagnosis as to exactly what antigens are to blame, is the fact that the same symptoms, itching and skin problems, characterize the different types of disorders. Vomiting and diarrhea may indicate a food allergy, and continuing ear problems or increased bowel movements are other possible signs. A food trial, in which the pet is placed on a novel food diet for twelve weeks, is the method used to isolate the food responsible.

Avoidance of the allergen is a common strategy to reduce symptoms for food, flea, atopic and skin problems. By removing and then reintroducing suspected allergens one at a time, one may discover the cause. Restricting ones pet to a clean, uncarpeted room and keeping them away from possible allergens is called an exclusion trial. Slowly introducing possible causes, including rubbing a substance such as grass on the paw, will help to identify it.

The most effective treatment that clears up the problem in many cases is giving Omega-3 fatty acids, or fish oil, to ones pet. The effects of chemicals known as histamines that are produced by the antibodies that fight off antigens are behind the symptoms, and fatty acids reduce those side effects in many cases. Several antihistamine drugs are available that can be administered if symptoms persist.

Temporary relief from itching can be obtained with topical therapy, consisting of shampoos, sprays, ointments and solutions that are applied to the skin. Some containing hydrocortisone are especially effective. Biotin is a chemical, known as vitamin B7, that relieves the symptoms for a minority of dogs.

In the most stubborn cases, immunotherapy, similar to allergy testing and injections for humans, is used as a dog allergies treatment. This consists of skin tests to determine the allergens involved, then giving weekly injections until immunity builds up. Steroids are another effective remedy, but because they may affect the immune and endocrine systems, their use is normally reserved for severe cases.