What are some common dog allergies?
In Texas, there are three common dog allergies. These can be broken down into flea allergies, food allergies, and environmental allergies, such as dust, pollen, and mold.
What are some signs and symptoms of allergies in dogs?
Signs and symptoms of allergies can vary for dogs. For humans, you and I will often get coughy, sneezy, and wheezy, dogs actually show more symptoms in their skin. We tend to see things like scratching and redness of the skin, especially in the armpit areas. You may even smell odors in dogs who have allergies if they start having chronic ear or skin infections, causing them to shake their heads more. Secondary infections may occur in their paws, causing them to lick their feet, sometimes waking them up in the middle of the night due to excessive licking.
How will a veterinarian diagnose allergies in my dog?
To diagnose allergies, your veterinarian will start with a thorough physical examination, looking for signs that indicate specific types of allergies. For instance, irritation at the base of the tail often points to a flea allergy, while symptoms in the feet or ears may suggest food allergies. They may also perform blood tests to identify environmental allergens. In some cases, a veterinary dermatologist can conduct a skin sensitivity test, similar to human allergy testing, to pinpoint specific allergens affecting your dog.
How will a veterinarian treat my dog's allergies?
Treatment will depend on the diagnosed allergy. For a flea allergy, the veterinarian will prescribe medication to eliminate fleas, as it’s the flea saliva that triggers the reaction. For food allergies, a food trial with a specific protein or carbohydrate may be recommended. Environmental allergies may require medications or injections for ongoing management. Desensitization, where your dog receives oral drops or injections to build immunity to allergens, is also an option.
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Dog Allergies - FAQs
How will a veterinarian test my dog for allergies?
It’s a great question. There are two ways: the veterinarian will perform a thorough physical exam to look for clues that point to specific allergies. Additionally, blood tests can be sent to a lab, or they can perform a skin test to determine exactly what your dog is allergic to.
How soon will I get the dog allergy test results?
If we send out the blood test, we generally receive results in about seven to ten days. For a skin allergy test, you may need to visit a dermatologist for an intradermal skin test.
What are the common treatments for dog allergies?
Treatments depend on the type of allergy. For flea allergies, we will prescribe medication to kill fleas when they bite your dog. For food allergies, we recommend a limited protein diet or sometimes a novel carbohydrate. For environmental allergies, we may provide oral medication or injections. Desensitization therapy, with oral drops or shots, may also help your dog get used to the allergens.
How are flea and insect bites on my dog treated?
For parasite control, we will put your dog on a monthly medication that kills fleas when they bite.
What medicine is safe for dogs with allergies?
There are many antihistamines that are safe for dogs, including some human medications, but you should always consult your veterinarian to ensure the correct dosage for your dog.
Can I give my dog Benadryl for allergies?
Benadryl is safe, but we often find it’s not very effective for skin allergies in dogs. At doses high enough to help, it can make your dog drowsy. It may help in mild cases but not in more severe ones.
Are there any holistic options for dog allergies?
Yes, one of the safest and most effective natural treatments is frequent bathing with a dog-approved shampoo. Avoid dish soap as it strips the oils from their fur. Bathing every 1-2 weeks can help wash away allergens like pollen, dander, and mold, preventing skin irritation.
Is there anything I need to do in my home environment for my dog's allergies?
Frequent cleaning is key. Vacuum regularly to remove allergens like pollen, mold, and dust. Also, clean or change your air conditioning filters every three months to limit allergens entering the home, benefiting both your pets and your family.
If you still have questions and would like to reach out to us, you can call us directly at (817) 435 4783