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.

Reasons that more rarely produce responses are allergies to food or of the skin. The foods that are most likely to cause symptoms are the same foods that are the most common ingredients in commercial food recipes. Certain fungal infections, that is, mange or ringworm, should be ruled out if they are suspected. Skin conditions that originate from exposure to noxious substances are irritant or allergic contact dermatitis. These rare conditions are responses to irritating chemicals or other antigens.

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 first step one can take is to add Omega-3 fatty acids to their pets diet. This is fish or flax oil and they assist in reducing the effects of histamines, which are responsible for the itching and skin conditions. If the fatty acids do not take effect in a few weeks, antihistamine drugs, originally designed for humans, can also work for canines.

Topical therapy, which involves treating the pets skin with anti itch ointments, shampoos, rinses or sprays often have good results, but these offer temporary relief. Shampoos containing hydrocortisone are also used. Biotin, a B vitamin, has also shown positive results for some pets.

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.

I'm a family pet health expert who specializes in skin care for dogs.