Dog Allergies - Things You Should Know

 

Most people know about pet allergies but not everyone knows that pets can get allergies too. Just like humans, pets can suffer from allergies caused by certain foods, pollen, medication and other things too.

How can you tell if your pet is having an allergic reaction? If your dog seems to be scratching more than usual this could be a sign that he has an allergy. Inspect your dog carefully for any signs of hives. While you're looking through your dog's coat, check to see if there are any signs of a flea infestation. While you may not necessarily see a flea, tell tale tiny black spots are a sign that your dog has fleas.

A swollen face is also a symptom that your dog has had an allergic reaction to something, it could be caused by anything like an insect bite or a reaction to something he's eaten. If your dog's face seems different or is visibly swollen this is a symptom of an allergy. A dog with a swollen face will usually paw at it and seem restless. Sometimes the swelling is so extreme that your dog won't be able to open his eyes and you have to take him to the vet immediately. Neglecting to seek medical treatment when your dog has had an allergic reaction to something can result in the death of your pet.

A more severe symptom of an allergic reaction is when your dog has difficulty swallowing or breathing. This means that his throat has become swollen and has constricted and you shouldn't delay in taking him to the vet. Left untreated your dog could choke to death.

Your vet will commonly give antihistamines to help provide relief for your dog. These could be in the form of pills or ointments. Injections are sometimes given for immediate relief. There are also special shampoos and rinses formulated to help relieve itchiness in dogs. In severe cases, your vet may prescribe steroids but he should also discuss with you the potential side effects steroids have on pets. If you are giving steroids to your pet it should only be under the strict supervision of your vet. Never stop giving steroids suddenly, they must be withdrawn from gradually, your vet will give your exact instructions on how to use these drugs as safely as possible.

Keeping an eye on your dog and watching for any abnormal behavior or symptoms should ensure your dog lives a long and healthy life. Always seek medical advice if your pet seems ill, vets are the people best qualified to diagnose a problem.