A Few Facts About Dog Allergies Treatment

Conventional wisdom states that there are four main underlying causes for canine allergy symptoms, and effective dog allergies treatment have been developed for them. As all of those reasons produce common symptoms, various tests may be necessary to determine which allergen is provoking a reaction. Standard methods of treatment are successful in controlling most cases. Some especially severe conditions may require the use of steroids or immunotherapy.

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.

Skin conditions may be diagnosed through an exclusion trial, which means keeping the pet away from possible allergens outdoors, limiting them to a room with no carpets. The avoidance approach of removing the likely causes for the reactions and reintroducing them one by one can be effective to determine the cause. But, the most conventional treatments often resolve the symptoms so that no further tests are required.

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.

When none of the above methods are adequate for dog allergies treatment, steroids produce good results, but are not recommended for long term use, because immune or endocrine system problems may develop over time. Immunotherapy, involving allergy skin testing and a series of injections, is a highly successful approach for most animals. This therapy takes a dedicated pet owner, but results in significantly reduced reactions to allergens.

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