Kinds Of Dog Skin Allergies

More dogs have allergies today then ever before. Estimates reveal that as many as one out of every seven dogs displays symptoms of an allergy. In fact, dog skin allergies are the number one reason why owners bring their pets to a veterinarian. Heredity is believed to contribute to these problems. Breed also seems to matter, as some types are much more likely to develop issues than others.

Allergies are negative reactions due to exposure to an inhalant, food, or environmental stimuli. The offending substance the dog is exposed to is referred to as an allergen. In response to this allergen the immune system of the animal initiates an allergic or hypersensitive reaction.

Dogs must come into contact with a substance at least twice before they can have a reaction from it. During the first time of exposure, the immune system manufactures antibodies. Afterwards, when exposure again occurs, an antibody directed reaction takes place that produces histamine, a chemical mediator.

In humans, symptoms are normally experienced in the respiratory system. In dogs, skin complications occur instead. Frantic itching is one of the most telling signs of problems. In addition to scratching, dogs will also be short tempered and unpleasant, as they are suffering.

There are two categories of hypersensitivities. The first happens immediately, only minutes after exposure, and causes the formation of hives. Severe types of immediate responses can cause anaphylactic shock, weakness, collapse, breathing difficulties, diarrhea, vomiting, and death. Delayed response types happen from hours to days after exposure. The main indicator of this type is an extreme itching sensation.

There are four main reasons for canine allergies. First are fleas or any other insects that may bite. Second are inhaled forms of substances such as grasses, pollen, dust mites, and molds. Third is consuming specific drugs or foods. Last, irritation may result from physical contact with a substance.

Hives are a common problem in dogs. They occur with the immediate reaction type response and appear as raised circular areas. Hairs can start to stick out in patches. Eyelids also may start to swell. Hives can develop around a half hour after exposure and disappear by the same time the next day.

Their cause can be soaps, insecticides, antibiotics, vaccinations, or insect bites. If they seem to appear and then disappear they are probably caused by something within the environment. When problems come from food, dietary modifications are an important solution. When they are believed to be the result of a shampoo, bathe the pet and look for a new product.

Fleas are the cause of both delayed and immediate responses. Itching occurs soon after being bitten and can endure for as long as fleas continue to exist. Flea control is a great solution to this problem and other pets in addition to the one effected must be treated. This lowers chances of recurring problems. Antihistamines can reduce itching and medicated baths and antibiotics are commonly prescribed cures.

Dog skin allergies are becoming increasingly problematic. They result from airborne substances, foods, or physical contact with offending substances. Symptoms can occur immediately or be delayed a few days after exposure. Flea bites cause both types of reactions.