Treatment for Allergies in Dogs

Coughing, sneezing, wheezing, itching or scratching are some of the common allergy symptoms in dogs. Just as we might be allergic to certain substances, even pets exhibit certain symptoms on coming in contact with certain allergens. Allergic reactions in dogs can be categorized into contact allergy, inhalant allergy, flea allergy or bacterial allergy. Some dogs might be allergic to certain food items. If you are a dog owner, you must have a basic idea about the common symptoms and effective treatment options for allergic reactions in dogs. Here's some information on the common causes, symptoms and treatment for allergies in dogs.

Causes

Allergic reactions are mainly attributed to an immune response. When the immune system detects the presence of allergens, it springs into action and as a result, the immune cells within the skin and tissues start releasing histamines. The release of histamines is responsible for allergic reactions. Exposure to allergens such as pollen, mold, mildew and dust mites are responsible for inhalant allergies. If there is a mold infestation in your home, it could cause symptoms such as itching, wheezing and skin problems in dogs. Contact allergy could also be caused due to fabrics such as wool. Some dogs might be allergic to flea collars.

Allergic reaction in some dogs could also be attributed to dog fleas. In case of some dogs, flea bites could cause severe skin allergies. They might start chewing on their paws and scratch constantly. Persistent scratching can cause sores on your dog's skin. Self-inflicted skin trauma could also put your dog at an increased risk of developing secondary bacterial infections. Allergies could also be caused due to certain bacteria. Allergic reactions can also be caused due to certain ingredients in dog food. Dogs suffering from inhalant allergies might be an increased risk of developing food allergies. Food allergies could cause itching, face rubbing, head shaking, flatulence, sneezing, vomiting and diarrhea. If your dog seems to be exhibiting such symptoms, you must consult a veterinarian immediately.

Treatment

Wheezing, coughing, vomiting, diarrhea, discharge in eyes, runny nose, paw chewing, licking, constant itching and recurrent ear infections are some of the common allergy symptoms in dogs. If your dog is exhibiting such symptoms, you must consult a veterinarian soon. To determine the cause of allergy, the veterinarian might run tests on skin scrapings. Skin culture and blood testing can help in determining the dog skin allergy treatment options. Since allergic reactions are caused due to release of histamines, the treatment generally involves the use of antihistamines. If the symptoms are severe, veterinarian might recommend the use of steroids. The prolonged use of steroids could cause certain side effects which is why these must be used sparingly. The administration of allergy shots treatment options.

As far as the treatment of skin allergies is concerned, topical application of hydrocortisone creams might help in relieving itching in dogs. Bathing your dog in hypoallergenic shampoo would also help. You must make sure that allergens are not present in the surroundings. Avoidance of the allergen is extremely essential to prevent the symptoms from worsening. This will also help in preventing allergies in future. Make sure that your house is clean. If your dog has been exhibiting dog food allergy symptoms, you need to be very careful while selecting dog food. Since omega-3 essential fatty acids can help in preventing allergic reactions, these can be given in the form of supplements.

Common dog food allergies are caused due to dairy products, chicken, wheat, soy, whey, beef and corn. Use of preservatives and colors could also be responsible for causing food allergies. So, make sure that you are not giving such foods to your dog. If you are not sure about the dog food ingredients that your dog might be allergic to, you could get an allergy test conducted. You can also put your dog on an elimination diet to find out about the source of allergy. Make sure that you don't give your dog table scraps during the testing period. Eliminating such foods is the most important aspect of dog food allergies treatment. Look for dog food brands that offer organic and natural dog foods. Pay attention to your dog's health and minimize the chances of allergic reactions by taking precautionary measures.

Now that you are aware of the causes of food allergies and skin allergies in dogs, make sure that you take all preventive measures and keep your surroundings free from allergens. If your pet has been exhibiting symptoms of allergies, visit a veterinarian soon.