Dog Allergies

Can You Give a Dog Benadryl?

2011-11-05T22:10:00.003-04:00

Benadryl is an effective medication for allergies and other conditions; most veterinarians allow its use in canines. So, can you give a dog Benadryl, the answer is that generally speaking, yes, there should be no problem in administering Benadryl to your dog.

This is certainly a question many veterinarians are often asked. However, Benadryl, which is diphenhydramine in the US and Canada, is usually well-accepted by dogs and it is easily available without a prescription because it is an over-the-counter (OTC) medication. Benadryl is an antihistamine; which means it counteracts the effect of histamine which causes symptoms such as itching.

Most OTC medications are prepared for adult human consumption, and dogs usually weigh considerably less than humans, so the amount given to your dog may need adjustment from package recommendations, especially when given to puppies and smaller “toy” adult dogs. Your veterinarian will tell you how much of the medication to administer.

Benadryl is given to dogs to treat several medical conditions. The most common are allergy symptoms such as itching, ear infections, and asthma-like symptoms, runny or stuffy nose, coughing, and sneezing. However, Benadryl may also be given for other conditions such as non-allergenic causes of itching, motion sickness, insect bites, bee and hornet stings, and irritation around the dog’s anus. Benadryl is also a sedative and can be used to calm agitation, travel anxiety, and to treat insomnia.

Note: Benadryl (diphenhydramine) has been used sometimes for snake bites; however this is an uncertain practice and should be avoided.

Benadryl is usually quick acting and relief will often be clearly noticed within 30 minutes after administration. That said, in some cases, it make take a week before results are evident. However, there is no question should you ask, can you give a dog Benadryl. But there are other questions you should ask your vet: how much Benadryl can I give my dog, and is Benadryl safe for dogs.

How Much Benadryl Can I Give My Dog?

The general guideline for how much Benadryl can I give my dog is 1mg of Benadryl (diphenhydramine) for each pound of body weight, 3 times per day (which means every 8 hrs). As an example, a 20 lb dog could be given 20 mg of Benadryl 3 times per day. However, please note that it is strongly advised that you get professional advice from your vet before administering any medication to your dog.

Benadryl is normally given to dogs in two methods:

By Tablet: Crush the tablet and mix into the dog's food.

By Liquid Gel Capsules: Drip the liquid into the dog's food.

Some dogs are smart and have figured out that medicine may be hidden in their grub. But, even smart dogs love certain kinds of food better than others. If your dog searches for pills in their food, hide the pill or place the liquid in one of their favourite foods. They are more likely to gobble it down without thinking.

There are other methods of administering this medication in some circumstances your veterinarian may advise, these including rectal suppositories and by injection. However, these methods are not normally as preferred as tablet or liquid gel capsule.

Benadryl can also have side effects in dogs that take other medications. Make sure your vet knows of all the medications your dog is currently taking. This is important information in determining how much Benadryl can I give my dog, or if you can give it at all. This is especially true if you have an older dog that is taking other medications. Your vet will advise you on the correct dosage, as this may vary due to interaction with other medications and other factors.

Is Benadryl Safe for Dogs

Well, is Benadryl safe for dogs? the answer is yes, Benadryl is generally very safe for healthy dogs. Benadryl has been used for allergy control since 1946, so it has a long history of use. This medication has been also been studied for decades and it has been noted as normally providing few side effects when used on a healthy adult dog of medium to large build.

Benadryl is normally well-tolerated when taken with flea and heartworm medication as well as steroids. Be aware that some OTC variations of Benadryl have additives that should be avoided, such as decongestants, painkillers, added sodium, alcohol, or sugar. It is important that the only active ingredient used for dogs should be diphenhydramine.

If your dog has a serious medical condition then it is important to ask your vet, “can I give my dog Benadryl.” This is because some pre-existing medical conditions can be a concern when taking this medication. Benadryl is not normally given to dogs with high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, glaucoma, prostatic disease, urinary obstruction, hyperthyroidism, or dogs that are pregnant or if your dog is nursing puppies.

I hope I have answered your questions concerning Benadryl.

Dog Allergies | Basic Information

2011-08-29T14:29:00.001-04:00

Dog allergies are a source of discomfort for some dogs just as allergies can be a discomfort for some humans. Essentially the immune system recognizes a substance as dangerous, whether it is actually dangerous or not, and the body reacts by taking protective measures. Most of the time the reaction is of a mild to moderate measure that is noticeably uncomfortable. However, sometimes the reaction can be extreme.

The substance that causes dog allergies is called an allergen, and an allergen can be inhaled, ingested, or in come in direct contact with the skin. After recognizing a substance as an allergen, and therefore dangerous, the body will then try to eliminate the problem causing a range of respiratory, digestive, and skin allergy symptoms.

The typical symptoms of dog allergies include:

• Increased scratching, increased licking
• Rubbing face on carpet or any similar surface
• Red, moist skin
• Paw chewing
• Itchy ears, ear infection
• Runny eyes
• Sneezing
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

If you suspect your dog may be affected by dog allergies it is wise to take your dog to a veterinarian so he/she can confirm an allergy through diagnosis. In some cases, skin testing and blood work may be necessary in order to attempt to determine the allergen.

Whether the allergen is identified at first or not, your veterinarian will usually be able to alleviate the discomfort of your pet to a tolerable level. Ideally, with the identification of the allergen, it will be possible for your pet dog to live the remainder of his/her life without allergy discomfort. Hopefully, the allergen can be discovered and therefore removed from the dog’s environment.

However, this is not always possible. In some cases, continuing dog allergies can lead to medical complications such as recurring ear infections as skin conditions that may require medication or other special treatment. A dog allergy typically will first show up when a dog is between one to three years old. In some cases a dog will first experience a dog allergy as late as six to eight years old.

Basic Types of Dog Allergies

1. Dog Flea Allergies

Dog flea allergies are the most common form of dog allergies. The allergen is flea saliva which is left on the dog’s skin after a flea has bitten your dog. Unfortunately, fleas can be difficult to get rid of. Fleas are very fertile and produce huge numbers of eggs. It is important to get your dog on a flea treatment program as soon as possible after fleas are found on your dog. In warm weather, fleas thrive and can live until cold weather sets in. During this period of time, which is year-round in California, the southwest and southern states, fleas will patiently await a dog host, attach themselves, and begin to feed from the dog’s blood.

2. Dog Food Allergies

Dog food allergies are less common than dog flea allergies, but they are common. Unfortunately, dog food allergies can sometimes become a problem because discovering the food responsible for the allergenic reaction can be tricky. However, there are skin testing, and other avoidance and detection techniques that will be used to zero-in on the food allergen. This may take some detective work.

For some dogs, there is no perfect food. Especially with so many chemicals in commercial dog food, sometimes a dog owner must resort to cooking for their dog.

3. Dog Inhalant Allergies

Dog inhalant allergies, which are also referred to as “atopy”, and are caused by environmental factors, things or pollutants in the air that your dog breathes. If your dog becomes allergic to something in their environment, this may also require some detective work to narrow down the possibilities and finally locate the exact allergen.

Atopic allergens can be from natural sources and unnatural sources.

Natural sources include pollen from grass, plants and trees; dust mites; mold spores; animal dander; feathers; and other similar items.

Unnatural sources are usually manufactured substances such as chemicals, additives, and other pollutants contained in such items as plastics, rubber, as well as fumes from household cleaning products, tobacco smoke and other noxious fumes, chemicals in wool, cotton, nylon and other products, and other similar artificial or toxic gasses and fumes associated with manufactured goods and products.

Finding an Atopic Allergen

A prime cause of allergic reactions in dogs is the same prime cause of allergic reactions in humans—pollen. This to say that if you are allergic to pollen, then your dog may also be allergic to pollen. So, if you are reacting to hay fever or some new pollen in your back yard, it may be that your dog is reacting to the same irritant. Just as you may take medication for your allergy, your dog may need medication as well, but not the same as yours. A veterinarian will need to determine the best treatment for your pet dog.

Seasonal dog allergies come and go with seasonal pollen allergens and there is little you can do about them except to take medication to relieve symptoms. You may wish to check the pollen count to see if the specific source can be identified. That may help in avoidance. Keep in mind that tree pollens usually occur earlier in the spring than grass pollen. With seasonal allergens, the pollen will pass in a few weeks and the allergy will disappear, until next spring.

Non-seasonal dog allergies are another story. If the allergy does not go away in a month or so, then it is likely you are dealing with a year-round allergy. It is possible to eliminate this form of inhalant allergen from the dog’s environment if the source can be found. To do this, often the best technique is to use the process of elimination. Keep in mind, there may be more than one thing your dog has developed an allergy. However, the elimination process may reveal one or more allergens. When they are identified, they are simply removed from the immediate environment and that should solve the problem.

Sometimes in the case of certain items, the dog’s bed and toys may need to be cleaned. In fact, your pet can become allergic to the plastic or other substance in his bed or toys. Allergen skin tests may be effective in identification.

Summing Up

Dog allergies can be a problem for some pets. But with the help of your veterinarian you should be able to deal with mild to medium allergies very effectively. Serious allergies may require considerably more work, but your veterinarian will walk you through the process.

On this site we have articles that discuss various aspects of dog allergies. We hope you may find them useful.

Remedies for Dog Allergies

2009-05-09T16:57:00.004-04:00

Remedies for dog allergies are the methods and medications used in allergy symptom relief and for the general treatment of allergies in dogs that may be recommended and prescribed by your family veterinarian or veterinary dermatologist.

Common Sense Tips: These are some ideas that many find very helpful in dealing with a dog with allergies. Medicine may be lessened and at times eliminated with these common sense ideas, time-tested and proven effective. These techniques are meant to be used in conjunction with (and not to replace) regular veterinary care.

Allergy Diagnosis is a process and an art. Although each case is different, read what may typically happen when your family veterinarian (for easy cases) or veterinary dermatologist (for more than easy cases) goes through the process of diagnosing your dog.

Canine Antibiotics are used to eliminate skin infections that sometimes develop when a dog has skin irritation due to an allergy. For proper use read the Four Principles in Administering Antibiotics.

Antihistamine for Dogs is an important tool in controlling allergy symptoms in dogs including skin itching. It is sometimes used alone and also in conjunction with other medications.

Atopica is a new wonder drug that is considered a major advance in providing comfort for allergy-tormented dogs. It is usually well tolerated. Atopica is sometimes used for long-term symptom control at times in conjunction with other medications.

Dog Steroids are highly effective. They are a medication used for the immediate relief of allergy symptoms, including intense itching. Unfortunately, steroids have serious side effects that should be understood. Nevertheless, steroids are an important medication used in special situations.

Dog Allergy Test: The Blood Work & Skin Test are performed by veterinary dermatologists prior to the administration of allergy shots. We discuss these tests so you may know what to expect.

Allergy Shots for Dogs: The goal is to desensitize a dog from the allergens causing allergenic reactions. The shots are inconvenient and expensive, but they are the only way to cure Inhalant Allergies. Allergy shots have advantages and disadvantages; and they usually works, but sometimes they do not.

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2009-05-09T13:12:00.003-04:00

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Common Sense Dog Allergy Tips

2009-04-26T14:52:00.002-04:00

Here are some suggestions and tips
that may improve your dog’s physical condition, lessen the effects of an allergy, and make your dog feel better.

Bathing & Shampoo Therapy

Give your dog a nice cool bath or shower and use a hypoallergenic dog shampoo or oatmeal dog shampoo. These are designed for dogs with sensitive skin. This is a cooling way to soothe your dog’s itchy skin and help control the allergy at the same time. Note: I advise that you not use a medicated dog shampoo unless specifically recommended by your vet. Also, do not use any human shampoo, especially a baby shampoo, as they are mostly detergent based and can irritate dog skin.
A bath or shower will wash away allergens in the fur and some antigens (a substance that can cause an immune response) on the skin. It is now known that antigens are absorbed through the skin and can trigger an allergenic reaction. There is no question that frequent bathing or showering will wash away allergens and will lower antigen exposure.

But how much bathing is too much? Well, there are differences of opinion. Some say you can bathe or shower a dog with allergies as often as twice a week, some bathe or shower once a week, and some will not bathe or shower their dog more than every other week. But whenever you bathe or shower your dog, make sure the temperature of the water is cool and not hot or warm. This is very important as the cool water will calm and soothe irritated skin. Warm and hot water will irritate his skin. You can read more about bathing and grooming your dog in How to Give a Dog a Bath (or Shower) which is located on my Dog Care site.

Holistic Dog Foods

I fully support the use of holistic natural dog food. The evidence is growing as we become more aware of the limitations and problems with regular commercial dog food. To put it in simply terms, many dogs have their allergy problems go away by simply taking them off regular brands of commercial dog food and switching to one of several holistic natural dog food brands that are on the market. Unfortunately, even the “Premium Brands” of commercial dog food contain corn, wheat, soy, various chemicals including preservatives, and very poor quality of meat. Some of them are not healthy to eat; and all of these items are very common allergens. It makes no sense to feed this stuff to your dog. Even many veterinarians now recommend using holistic dog foods, only (assuming you do not cook for your dog).

Omega Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids and omega-6 fatty acids are essential fatty acids, EFA’s, that are a specific type of polyunsaturated fatty acids that play a crucial role in brain function, encourage normal growth and development, and have a natural anti-inflammatory effect. The anti-inflammatory aspect of EFA’s is especially important to dogs with allergies. EFA’s are not made in the body and are not thought to be generally harmful. Omega-6 fatty acids should not be taken in excess. A balance between omega3 fatty acids and omega-6 fatty acids is important, so you should aim for a ratio of omega-6 to omega3 fatty acids of 10:1 to 5:1. As Omega-6 fatty acids are common in food, so a dog’s diet should be supplemented to insure omega3 fatty acids levels are sufficient.

Omega3 fatty acids are in fish oil capsule, especially in cod and in krill, which is a shrimp-like marine invertebrate animal. Omega-6 fatty acids are derived from certain plants such as the oil from the evening primrose. Research indicates that EFA’s supplements aid in reducing allergic reaction to allergens. They are very helpful to many allergic dogs, and are useful in the prevention of allergies especially in puppies. In fact, dogs with inhalant allergies (atrophy) can especially benefit from taking essential fatty acids supplements.

Unfortunately fatty acids in food have a short shelf life. Improper storage or preparation can cause rancidity in dry dog food fairly quickly. Also, overcooking destroys fatty acids. For this reason, it is not a bad idea to add a fish oil capsule, preferably one with vitamin E, to your dog’s diet. Organic flaxseed is another EFA that is an anti-inflammatory, so it is not a bad idea to also supplement with an organic flaxseed oil capsule to your dog’s diet. They should be given with food for best absorption into the body. A daily fish oil capsule will also benefit your dog’s coat and will help keep it in as good condition as possible. This may be more important if your dog is periodically taking steroids. If your dog is allergic to fish then you can supplement with the seeds of the Salvia Hispanica plant, which provides a rich source of omega3 fatty acids. This should be available in health food stores.

The Holistic Approach

Some dog owners use a natural approach in dealing with dog skin allergies. Holistic methods include massage, acupuncture, vitamin therapy, herbal baths, trigger-point therapy and the like. These are designed to develop a healthier dog that is better able to deal with allergens. This approach may lower medication requirements.

Having Trouble Getting Your Pooch to Swallow Canine Medications?

Getting a dog to swallow canine medications can sometimes be a chore. Some dogs are too darn smart and eagerly root out and push away their pills. Well, be aware that some pharmacies will alter the form or flavor of some medications so your dog will be more willing take it. You may need to ask. Also, you may want to try altering doggy canine medications yourself at home. Some quick methods are to crush the pill and then mix it into some ground meat or other food. You can hide liquids in fruit juice. Use your imagination and try to out smart your pooch.

Synopsis

Dogs with substantial allergies need some pampering. It is a good idea to give cool baths or showers to your dog using a hypoallergenic dog shampoo or oatmeal dog shampoo. The frequency of bathing is in question, but once a week should be safe. Ask your vet for his/her opinion. Most commercial dog food is not as good as you may think. Some of it is dangerous for dogs with allergies; it can even be unhealthy for dogs without allergies. Holistic natural dog food is far better in many ways. I recommend you use it. Omega3 fatty acids and Omega-6 fatty acids at a ratio of 1:10 to 1:5 should benefit your dog’s fight against allergies. Adding a fish oil capsule (cod) and an organic flaxseed oil capsule is a very good idea.

If your dog is allergic to fish, then instead of a fish oil capsule you can use the seeds of the Salvia Hispanica plant, which should be available in pill or capsule form. It is important to keep in mind that the suggestions and tips
mentioned in this article are meant to supplement and not replace normal veterinary care and canine medications as prescribed by your family veterinarian. In many cases these techniques may reduce the need for such medications but only in a few will eliminate their need.

Allergy Shots for Dogs

2009-04-24T23:25:00.010-04:00

Allergy shots for dogs should be administered only by a veterinary dermatologist, who is a specialist in the diagnosis and treatment of allergies in animals. In the United States, veterinary dermatologists should have board certification of the American College of Veterinary Dermatology (ACVD). The idea behind the involved process of getting allergy shots for dogs is to cure middle-aged or older dogs from a year-round inhalant allergy. This form of dog allergies treatment is not as effective in younger dogs. At the present time allergy shots are not advised for food allergies because the reliability of desensitization so low. This form of dog allergies treatment involves a series of vaccination shots administered over a period of time, usually between four and twelve months, on average. Each dog allergy shot contains a hyposensitising vaccine that has been created for the allergies specific to your dog. The vaccine is safe but must be administered on a strict schedule.

At the beginning, a small dose of the vaccine is injected into the dog daily. As time goes by, the amount of vaccine is gradually increased and the frequency of vaccination is reduced. If all goes to plan, the dog will tolerate the allergen and will no longer have an allergenic reaction. However, this treatment does not always work. The rate of complete success is about 50%, with about 25% having partial success. The treatment fails about 25% of the time. This is the same response rate for humans undergoing desensitization. Many dog owners give the shots to their own dog. You will be taught the correct procedure. If this is not done, then the dog will have to be driven to the veterinarian’s office for each shot.

Also, be aware that this form of dog allergies treatment is expensive. In fact it is the most expensive form of treatment available. But it is the most effective and desirable—if it works. In a few cases, this dog allergies treatment is successful as long as vaccinations continue, sometimes for several years, and in a very few cases for life. This could mean a vaccination once a week, once a month or only an occasional booster. Although there are distinct draw-backs to this form of dog allergies treatment it is nevertheless the ideal way to treat inhalant allergies. Whether allergy shots for dogs are a good choice depends on you and dog’s circumstances. Every case is different.

Dog Allergy Test: The Blood Work & Skin Test

2009-04-24T23:17:00.004-04:00

A dog allergy test refers to both the blood work and the Intradermal Skin Test (IDST) which is the diagnostic testing done before administering allergy shots for dogs. These tests and the arrangement of allergy shots are the domain of the veterinary dermatologist who is a specialist in the diagnosis and treatment of allergies in animals. In the United States, veterinary dermatologists should have board certification of the American College of Veterinary Dermatology (ACVD). It is best to have the dog allergy test performed during the season when the allergies are at their worst.

House Cleaning Prior to Dog Allergy Testing

Before going to a vet dermatologist for dog allergy testing and allergy shots for dogs it is very desirable to try one last at-home procedure in a final attempt to stop the allergenic reactions your dog is enduring. Surprisingly, this procedure sometimes works wonders.

Temporarily remove the dog from the home so the house environment can be thoroughly cleaned without the dog being present. This may mean several days at a boarding facility or at a relative or friend’s home. The house cleaning should be a very thorough cleaning, like a major spring cleaning where everything is completely cleaned and aired out. A HEPA air purifier can be introduced into the house to better remove air impurities and airborne allergens, if you don’t already have one. When the cleaning is complete and the dog is again living back in your house, it is possible his or her dog allergies symptoms may be substantial reduced or possibly eliminated. If this is the case, then the home environment can be controlled so the allergy symptoms can be greatly eased. This is good news. However, if there is little or no change in dog allergies symptoms then depending upon circumstances it may be best to proceed with dog allergy desensitization (allergy shots).

Your Veterinarian

Your veterinary dermatologist will expect your family vet has already conducted a comprehensive workup to rule out other possible causes of skin irritation, such as fungal or bacterial infections and other medical conditions, such as hypothyroidism before sending the dog to the vet dermatologist. However, sometimes in obviously difficult cases, a vet may send a dog immediately to a veterinary dermatologist for all preliminary testing. If this is the case, then your vet dermatologist will perform the tests just mentioned before the following pre-allergy shot diagnostic testing.

Pre-Allergy Shot Diagnostic Testing

Before dog allergy shot therapy can begin, a full medical history is taken along with diagnostic tests, which include blood work and a skin scratch test. This is done to establish an accurate diagnosis of the allergy and exact allergen identification. This dog allergy test is very important as the allergy shot vaccine will be based on these results.

1. Blood Work testing will check for antigen-induced antibodies in the blood of the dog. The old standard is the radioallergosorbent test (RAST). However, many vets now prefer the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay test (ELISA). ELISA is similar to RAST but ELISA is usually more accurate and is the one normally recommended. In essence, blood is drawn and is sent to the lab. The lab may be able to identify allergens. It is more accurate in identifying inhalant allergens than food or contact allergens. Unfortunately, testing usually will take several weeks. The accuracy of results can be a problem as false positives may be evident. Therefore, blood tests are less favored except when a skin test is not possible. Circumstances when blood tests may be desirable also include when the dog has skin infection, the allergy condition is especially serious, a skin test was negative when atopy is still suspected, the dog is too young for skin testing, or the number of suspect allergens are many. Of course there can be other circumstances.

2. The Intradermal Skin Test (IDST), or skin scratch test, is usually the most important dog allergy test. The dog is put to sleep in order to avoid any distress to the animal. An area on the dog is prepared (shaved), usually an upper or lower arm, the upper back or a side. Within a grid layout, the skin is scratched or injected with the most likely, common, or suspected allergens. Within several hours redness and swelling may become evident, thus identifying the allergen or allergens. However, in this dog allergy test identification is a bit of an art and it does take experience to determine accurate results (which is why you are paying for a specialist).

With allergens identified, sometimes another test may be able to discover more allergens. With the dog allergy test complete, a determination will be made whether or not allergy shots are appropriate. See the next article, Allergy Shots for Dogs.

Antihistamine for Dogs

2009-04-22T22:53:00.003-04:00

Antihistamine for dogs can be an effective treatment for dog allergies just as it is for humans. In dogs it is used primarily for the control of itchy skin. A dog antihistamine alone has a 10-to-20% chance of being effective. However, when part of a treatment plan that includes increasing fatty acids into the diet, specifically omega3 fatty acids, and allergen avoidance, the success rate can be as high as 40%. Certainly, dog antihistamines are among the most important canine medications available to veterinarians today. Essential fatty acids, or EFA’s include omega6 fatty acids. But these are found in abundance in daily diet. Only omega3 fatty acids need to be supplemented, such as adding 3V capsules, or 3V Caps for dogs.

Often, an antihistamine for dogs with an omega fatty acid supplement will be used as part of an effort to find an alternative to the use of Cortisone or other related steroid. Steroids should be used only for short periods of time during intense itching episodes, assuming other means of itch control can be found. In some cases, antihistamines can be an important medication in achieving this goal. Antihistamine for dogs is usually well tolerated. The most troubling side effect of any dog antihistamine is sedation. While on an antihistamine dogs will often exhibit lethargic behavior and may sleep more often and for longer periods of time. For this reason, during an initial dog allergy treatment process using an antihistamine, some dog owners while noticing a sedation effect may ask veterinarians to discontinue its use. This is a mistake. There is a fair chance that another antihistamine may not have the same degree of sedation.

It can be very worthwhile to try at least three other types of antihistamine to see if one works better. It is normal to try several different antihistamines before a final selection. The one with some of the best results is Atarax. However, others find the best dog antihistamine to be Benadryl, Chlor-Trimeton, Tavist, or Seldane. As each dog responds differently, there is no way of knowing which one may be best for your dog. The selection and use of any antihistamine for dogs should only be done under a veterinarian's guidance. While antihistamines are a very good treatment for dog allergies, they are powerful medications with widely different reactions. The use of any powerful dog allergy treatment requires knowledge and experience in order to avoid a medical emergency.

Canine Antibiotics Used for Skin Infections

2009-04-17T18:00:00.002-04:00

Canine antibiotics are used in treating dog allergies by eliminating bacterial infections that are harmful to dogs. When used in conjunction with other canine medications in treating dog allergies, a canine antibiotic are administered when a dog has scratched his/her skin to the point when it has become raw and a bacterial skin infection has developed. This is typically seen in moderate to severe skin allergies in dogs. When this occurs, the area of the infected skin will probably need to be treated with an antibiotic, which is often used along with a medicated shampoo.

One reason why the veterinarian gives a through physical examination is to check for skin breaks and for skin infections is that if he finds any he/she will then try to determine if the skin infection is due to scratching as the result of a canine skin allergy or if it is due to scratching due to another unrelated condition or disease. Sometimes blood tests may be needed. There are a variety of canine antibiotics that are available for use in dogs with canine skin allergies. Of course, canine antibiotics are not all the same, they are for different types of infection and they work very differently. So it is important you understand the specifics in administering the canine antibiotic your veterinarian prescribes for your dog. Antibiotics have side effects, so it is also important that you know what to look for.

Use Antibiotics Only When Needed

Many dog owners want an antibiotic prescribed every time they take their dog to the veterinarian. Unlike what many people think, canine antibiotics should only be used at highly selected times when they are actually needed. If given too often, antibiotics quickly loose their ability to be effective. That can create a very serious situation when a strong antibiotic is desperately needed but none are found to be effective. This does happen and it is usually completely preventable.

Never ask your vet for an canine antibiotic prescription for your dog and tell your vet you want the antibiotic only if absolutely necessary. Some vets are far too willing to write a prescription even though there is no good reason to prescribe an antibiotic. Some family physicians do the same thing for humans. As a result people and dogs are given far too many antibiotics for mild illnesses that do not require an antibiotic. There is no such thing as taking an antibiotic “just in case.” Either it is needed or it is not. If it is not needed, then it should not be taken. To give an antibiotic when it is not clearly required is irresponsible.

The Four Principles of Canine Antibiotics

Correct antibiotic use is based on four sensible principles of the administration of canine medications:

1. The correct antibiotic needs to be selected for the type of infection. Because it is not possible for the veterinarian to always select the appropriate antibiotic, in more serious cases blood testing may be needed at an early stage to confirm the antibiotic is working. If it is not, then another needs to be immediately started.

2. The proper dose must be given. Look at the instructions on the prescription bottle and follow them carefully.

3. The dose must be given at the correct times. Giving the antibiotic too early or too late can have a major effect on the outcome. It is important to maintain consistent tissue levels of the antibiotic in the body. Timing is very important.

4. Lastly, the antibiotic must be taken for the entire length of the administration regiment in order to correctly effect a cure.

Early withdraw of canine antibiotics by a dog owner, when the infection “looks cleared up,” is one of the main reasons for relapse and secondary infections (sometimes internal) that are usually more serious and more difficult to treat. Therefore, you should never end canine antibiotic medication early without very specific instructions from the prescribing veterinarian.

Canine antibiotics are an important classification of canine medications for treating dog allergies. They are capable to curing a variety of diseases and infections, if given correctly. Sometimes antibiotics may be needed for a lengthy period of time for especially difficult infections. But that is not usually the case. As with all canine medications, canine antibiotics should be used in treating dog allergies only when needed and only as instructed by the veterinarian.

Atopica for Dogs: For Skin Allergies in Dogs

2009-04-16T13:36:00.007-04:00

Atopica for dogs is a new, popular and commonly prescribed medication for skin allergies in dogs, specifically for atopic dermatitis or dogs allergic to airborne allergens. It contains cyclosporine, a drug that suppresses the immune system. It is not a cure and may not remove all symptoms of dog allergies but is highly effective with the symptoms of a dog skin allergy. In these cases it may substantially improve your dog’s enjoyment of life. It takes about four weeks for this medication to take full effect. Because of this, cortisone for dogs or a closely related steroid may be given for immediate relief while testing and diagnosis takes place. Because of the advantages of Atopica over cortisone for dogs, Atopica is often selected for treating skin allergies in dogs and often after initial attempts in identifying and removing the allergen have failed, or when the allergen cannot be completely removed from the dog’s environment.

A daily dosage will be required to control dog allergies symptoms. It is normally given once a day at first, in time it is often tapered down to once every other day, every third day, or less.

Atopica for dogs is usually very well tolerated; however dogs should be monitored for side effects. Some dogs do experience upset stomach, vomiting, or diarrhoea. However, most dogs have no problem with this drug. Also, be aware that if the dog is still exposed to the allergen and the drug is stopped, it is likely your dog will have a bounce-back reaction and feel the allergy again. Atopica is a treatment for a symptoms of allergies in dogs, it is not a cure. Once started, this prescription medication may need to be continued indefinitely or until the allergen can be identified and removed from the dog’s environment.

Officially, Atopica is not FDA approved for cats. Nevertheless, veterinary dermatologists say that Atopica is extreme well tolerated in cats and that it is very effective in treating a variety of diseases including Atopy, food allergies, and miliary dermatitis. Like all medications for the treatment of symptoms of allergies in dogs or of skin allergies in dogs, a certain amount of trial and error with alternatives may be needed to determine an appropriate treatment for your specific dog. Not all dogs should take Atopica; dogs less than four pounds in weight, dogs that are reproducing, and dogs with a history of malignant neoplasia should not take this medication. That said, many family veterinarians and vet dermatologists have found Atopica for dogs to be a superior treatment for the symptoms of allergies in dogs.

Allergy Diagnosis

2009-04-16T00:23:00.003-04:00

An allergy diagnosis is the result of a systematic process of discovery and elimination. This is done by examination and evaluation. This requires some experience, and knowing what to look for. Dog illness diagnosis is medical detective work. Factors must be considered that may indicate whether an allergy exists, and which one type of allergy it may be. All the while, remember the dog cannot speak with the doctor, cannot voice complaints, and cannot answer questions.

Dog Symptoms and Diagnosis

To start, the veterinarian reviews with the owner the dog’s diet, the home physical environment, recent activities, and medical history. The information the owner provides to the veterinarian will in some cases provide important clues. When this is completed, a thorough physical examination is conducted. Blood test may be taken to rule out other diseases. When the results are evaluated, an allergy diagnosis may be confirmed. If this is so, a likely allergen may be identified as the probable cause.

If this is not the case, depending on the circumstances and the dog’s discomfort, the process of allergies diagnosis may proceed with allergy skin tests. This will be performed by a veterinary dermatologist. Allergy skin tests are simple but important dog allergy testing in which the dog is put to sleep and the skin of the dog is scratched with various common allergens in a grid layout. Because the dog is asleep this test is not stressful to the dog. In about 20 minutes there may be an identifiable allergen indicated. The ultimate goal in treating the allergies that dogs have is to identify the causing allergen and if possible to restrict or remove the allergen from the dog’s environment. While at times it is surprisingly simple to diagnose an allergy and to locate the exact allergen. At other times, with so many possible allergens the search for one allergen can be more difficult. However, there is no better way of controlling an allergy than by identifying the allergen and restricting or eliminating it from the dog’s environment. Working in coordination with your veterinarian and with appropriate dog allergy testing, hopefully the goal of an exact allergy diagnosis will be reached.

Dog Steroids: A Blessing to Be Used with Awareness

2009-04-14T23:00:00.005-04:00

Dog steroids are highly effective in providing quick relief of allergy symptoms, especially chronic intense itching. The most common dog steroid is cortisone, sometimes called “corts,” which is a naturally occurring hormone. There are quite a number of other dog steroid medicines that are very closely related to cortisone. Cortisone and related medicines should not be confused with anabolic steroids, which are used for body and muscle growth. Cortisone and related medicines are quite different and are used for the treatment of pain, immune system irregularities, ear and eye disorders, inflammation, allergies, and chronic itching. As such, these steroids for dogs are a very useful veterinary medicine. However, they should be used with caution.

Side Effects of Steroids in Dogs

The problem with steroids for dogs is in the side effects. While short-term use of these medicines very rarely lead to adverse health problems, dogs on cortisone and related medicines should be monitored for side effects and symptom improvement. Common side effects include thrust, frequent peeing, weight gain, and exhaustion. The dog’s coat can also turn dry and dull. Prolonged use is associated with internal damage including a weakened immune system and damage to vital organs. If used over a longer period of time, these adverse effects can become life-threatening. It should be clearly understood there are serious conditions and disorders for which dog steroids are the only effective treatment.

Steroid Dogs

It is sensible and reasonable to use the lowest dose for the least amount of time. However some owners refuse to allow the use of this medication under any circumstances. This is not an appropriate decision. Dog steroids can bring profound relief to a dog under distress due to a severe allergy reaction. As a stop-gap reprieve, steroids for dogs can be invaluable. It can allow time for the cause of the dog’s attack to be calmly diagnosed, for testing to be performed, lab work completed, and a reasonable treatment determined. When dog steroid treatment is to be concluded, depending upon the dosage, the amount of dosage is gradually lowered over a period of time. Often an antihistamine for dogs will be phased-in as the steroid is phased-out. This allows an important lap-over time so that the antihistamine for dogs can take proper effect. While there are concerns for the side effects of steroids in dogs, it must be kept in mind that the use dog steroids are clearly desirable under certain circumstances.

Atopic Dermatitis in Dogs

2009-04-05T18:34:00.012-04:00

Atopic dermatitis in dogs is an inherited hypersensitivity disorder, a dog allergy skin disorder that can affect any pure or mixed breed of dog. However it is seen most commonly in German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, Dalmatians, Miniature Schnauzers and West Highland White Terriers. Symptoms usually occur between the first and third years of a dog’s life. Some people think of this condition as a dog skin allergy. However, it is the reaction to the allergy that brings on this disease. It is normally caused by an allergic reaction to something in the environment such as dust mites, instead of other causes such as dog food.

Atopic Dermatitis Symptoms

Symptoms often begin in subtle ways:

The owner may notice the dog is apparently grooming himself more often than usual, including during the night. However, dogs never groom themselves in the middle of the night. The dog is actually rubbing and scratching due to skin irritation.

The dog may be seen in generalized scratching, which may first be thought of as normal, but you may begin to think it is done too often.

If you scold your dog about scratching, you may find your dog scratching in private when he thinks you are not looking.
Then the owner may notice the dog often licking, scratching, and biting the paws, ears, armpits or groin area. These areas of the dog’s body are often the first to become irritated.

Red ears that feel hot and ear infections are a leading result of atopic dermatitis. But it is not the only cause.

All along, you may think the coat appears normal. This is why the problem called “an unseen itch.” At times,

Hot spots will be noticed, or

The coat may appear wet. That means your dog is licking when you are not looking.

Any of the above symptoms may be isolated skin eruptions that are unrelated. However, a series of such incidents is enough to suggest a dog allergy may be the culprit.

In time, atopic dermatitis in dogs will develop additional signs:

The skin will change color from pink to black. This will be clearly noticeable when your dog turns over on his back so you can give him a belly rub.

You will also usually see a reddish brown thin line or stain at the corners of his mouth, chin, between the toes, in the armpits, and in the groin.

Frequent scratching will become very noticeable.

If left untreated, the skin will continue to deteriorate and develop bald spots and red skin will be easily seen. At this point a veterinary dermatologist will need to be consulted for a comprehensive evaluation and a treatment plan selected.

Aatopic Dermatitis Diagnosis

Diagnosis for atopic dermatitis in dogs is difficult. There is no one single blood test to detect the disorder, so diagnosis is obtained through observation, the process of elimination, along with blood testing to eliminate other possible infectious causes, and sometimes a comprehensive skin test for likely allergens. Atopic dermatitis in dogs is not to be ignored. The condition must be diagnosed, the allergen identified and if possible, eliminated from the dog’s environment. Medication and treatments should be given to ease the discomfort.

More About Me

2009-04-02T12:33:00.013-04:00

I guess you could say I am from West Palm Beach, which is located on the Atlantic coast of the state of Florida, USA. At least that is where my parents now live and it is my official residence. I am a born US citizen. However, because of my father's employment I have lived primarily outside the USA for most of my life.

I have lived in New Zealand (Wellington), Canada (Vancouver), and in Scotland (Glasgow), which is of course part of the UK.

I attended high school in Glasgow (city centre pictured left) and played on the school football (soccer) team. I am a true football (soccer) enthusiast and miss it very much now that I'm living back in the States. (Yes, I know its also in the States but its not the same thing.} I also regularly swim, run, and since early teens I've been into Thai Boxing. My father insisted that I learn it. One summer I even attended a Muay Thai boxing camp in Thailand. I am now at a level where I could teach, but I have no time except for practice. In Thailand, I also learnt to meditate, which is something I feel everyone should learn and practice. I have been playing the bagpipes since I was about 12 years old, I played in the school Pipe Band. I have played at various gatherings.

I love animals; so over the years I have spent time as a volunteer in various animal shelters and on an SPCA Animal Rescue Unit. I am now a veterinary medical student at a university in the American Northeast.

West Palm Beach, or "West Palm", is a municipality of about 100,000 people. It is the “county seat” or administration centre for Palm Beach County, Florida. It is the home of some of the wealthiest families in America. Private mansions line the shoreline with public beaches squeezed in here and there. Some of the mansions are palatial. West Palm is a very pleasant community.

West Palm has a "vibrant" new downtown centre, City Place (pictured left). Of course, the beaches along the Atlantic are great. West Palm is also not far from Disney World (love it), Miami’s South Beach (love it even more), and Cape Kennedy (interesting, I guess). The weather is perfect during the winter. But as it is, I’m mostly "up North" (as Floridians say) during the winter. As for the summers in West Palm, they are ~~hot~~. (I be talk'n about the temperatures.)

So, that's a bit more about me and my new "hometown." West Palm is quite nice but I didn't grow up there. It's OK, but me heart and many friends are in Glasgow. You can see some really nice music videos about Bonnie Scotland on
More About Me on my Cat Allergy Relief blog (that's another of my blogs).

What Should I Do With My Scratching Dog?

2009-01-20T11:07:00.007-05:00

If you have a constantly scratching dog with licking and rubbing that begs for relief, then you may need to deal with a case of dog allergies. Sometimes a dog allergy can be relatively mild, at other times it is a very serious problem. Obviously, the dog is very uncomfortable and needs relief. But what could the problem be? Well, it could be one of several "scratching dog" conditions, which is not necessarily allergy based. These non-allergy conditions must first be ruled-out.

One cause of dog allergies is Environmental Dermatitis, or sensitivity to something the dog has touched in its extended environment. This contact usually takes place outside of the home. While there are potentially many causes, the most common cause is lawn grass with the accompanying chemicals sprayed on the grass. The dog has contact by walking around on the grass. Another common cause is trapped moisture. This usually occurs with heavily coated dogs or dogs with matted hair. The moisture is trapped under the hair and causes skin irritation. The moisture can be from any source, but is often rainwater or trapped moisture from swimming. Oddly enough, contact with plastics can be an unexpected cause for scratching dog. Environmental Dermatitis usually requires aggressive treatment to correct.

Another common cause of scratching dog is poor diet. This is very common. A poor diet will cause stress throughout the entire body including the skin and coat, as well as dental problems and internal organs. Deterioration of the condition of the skin and coat is called Nutritional Dermatitis. Dog owners are often shocked to learn the reason for their dog's gradual deterioration. Almost all dog owners think they are giving their dog a healthy diet. After all, many dog food labels state their contents are "a complete and balanced diet." Well, maybe not. Especially less expensive dry dog food (kibble) is usually more of a problem. Their labels might make sweeping claims but they are not being truthful. Many species of dog have very exact nutritional needs which many dog food manufacturers ignore. Luckily, there is a very quick cure. A switch to a high quality meat-based diet will usually bring a very dramatic turn-around in malnourished dogs.

Parasitic Dermatitis usually means fleas. There are a variety of effective and safe treatments that will prevent fleas or get rid of fleas. Preventative care is the key. Ticks can be another problem that needs attention. The tick is removed and the wound treated. Various types of mites can be quite a problem, so you may need to make a visit to the veterinarian for diagnose and treatment. Skin fungal, bacterial, and yeast infections come under the classification of Infectious Dermatitis and it's not pretty. Such infections are sometimes a complication to an already stressed skin condition. Lesions can develop if left untreated. Your veterinarian can diagnose and treat skin infections in the office.

Neurogenic Dermatitis can be very serious. I will not get into this except to say these are extreme cases and your dog will need a specialist in dermatology. Your veterinarian will be able to make recommendations. Now we come to the core topic of this weblog, and the largest category in dermatitis, dog allergies, a.k.a. Allergic Dermatitis. All the above forms of dermatitis and other ailments and illnesses must first be ruled out before attempting to deal with a dog allergy. The veterinarian will take blood samples and skin scrapings for lab tests in order to form a diagnosis. If the specific problem is "none of the above" then the problem is an allergy. Allergic Dermatitis is a complicated field because an allergen is often difficult to identify, and it can be difficult to treat. Of course, some cases are very straightforward and easily solved. But that is sometimes not the case.

What Should You Do?

Contact allergies are the simplest to handle. This is an allergy from an item used by the dog, such as the dog's bed, rug, toys, etc. Just wash them and bathe the dog in a medicated shampoo. Sometimes the item must be replaced. If you observe dog allergy symptoms, it is important to have the condition identified and treated before it becomes a serious problem. Take your dog to a veterinarian. A veterinarian will do a diagnosis. You can expect blood tests, skin scrapings, and lab work before a diagnosis can be properly made. The ailments other than allergies must first be ruled out. Then if your dog is diagnosed with Allergic Dermatitis, then the search begins. Your veterinarian will instruct you what to do. I understand that severe or chronic dog allergy symptoms are especially difficult for the dog and are upsetting to the dog owner. In dealing with dog allergies, it is necessary to be persistent in rooting out the cause of the allergy and in applying treatment. If all goes to plan, the scratching dog will return to its previously content and playful self.

Itching Dog!? How To Tell If Your Pooch Has an Allergy

2008-12-19T13:16:00.008-05:00

An itching dog is a miserable dog. Itching in dogs is a fairly common problem yet many dog owners know little about it. All too often, the problem is an allergy. And an allergy is always unpleasant whether in a human or in a dog. An allergenic reaction can be mild or severe, depending on the cause and the degree of sensitivity. A common reaction to canine allergies is swelling and itchy skin. If untreated, itchy skin that is constantly scratched will become infected. The infection will have to be treated.

Dog Itchy Skin

At first glance, an allergy in a dog can be mistaken as a flea infestation. After all, this is often the case with a dog itch. All dog owners have something to control dog fleas. So the first thought when seeing a dog itch is to reach for the handy flea power, or whatever you might use. But, is the problem really fleas? Fleas are very small, but they can be seen with a magnifying glass. So, first, look for fleas. If you don't see fleas, then perhaps the dog itch is an allergy. The reaction of a dog with fleas is not necessarily the same as a dog's reaction to an allergy. Flea itching tends to be shorter bursts of itching, while itching from an allergy tends to be more continuous. Mind you, this is a broad over-generalization and may not hold true to your dog. Another factor is that itching is sometimes present with other symptoms.

The following symptoms are the most common. They include:

Constant scratching

Licking and chewing, especially the paws

Discharges from the eyes and nose

Rubbing the face or ears

Swelling

Unusual hair loss

Red armpits and abdomen

Coughing and wheezing

Vomiting

Increased number of daily bowel movements (say three instead of one)

Diarrhea, and

New behavior or negative temperament changes

You must keep in mind that while these are symptoms associated with allergies, dog itchy skin can be a symptom for a variety of other more dangerous diseases. These other diseases must be ruled out before attempting to determine a food allergen. So, if they occur it may be time to visit the vet.
Also be aware that chronic dog itching that is untreated over a length of time will develop into a skin infection.

Dog Food Allergies

2008-12-19T13:15:00.011-05:00

Dog food allergies usually come as a surprise to most dog owners as most are unaware that dogs can develop a allergy. Well, dogs can and do develop allergies, including dog food allergies.

Symptoms of Dog Food Allergies

When a dog develops sensitivity to a substance, whether food, airborne or environmental, that substance is referred to as an "allergen." Some folks refer to the problem as ' dog food skin allergies', but that is misleading because it is not skin allergies, it is dog food allergies. Common reactions to allergens might include, but are not limited to scratching, coughing, wheezing, and discharges from the eyes and nose. Dog food allergies are specifically associated also with vomiting, increased number of daily bowel movements (say, three instead of one) and also with diarrhea. Of course, dog food allergies symptoms vary from dog to dog.

Dealing with any food allergy usually involves three steps. These are the easing of the symptoms, treating any skin infections, and identifying and eliminating the allergen.

Dry Dog Food

While many dogs do very well with dry dog food, nevertheless it is a common cause of dog food allergies. Some species of dog do not tolerate dry dog food well. For these species, dry dog food is more difficult to digest and it is much more prone to triggering an allergenic reaction. The allergen is usually a common problem food such as milk, soy, corn, wheat or eggs, or a chemical preservative. Sometimes an easy switch from a dry dog food to dog food in a tin may be all that is required. In other cases, its not that easy and considerable effort must be taken to isolate the exact allergen so it can be completely avoided in the future. Whatever steps are necessary are worth the effort as the elimination of the allergen will often reveal a much happier dog with an improved disposition and mood.

Dog Food for Dogs With Allergies

So, what to feed a dog with food allergies? Is there an allergy free dog food? While the search for the offending allergen can be difficult, at other times a simple change in diet is all that is needed to dramatically improve the symptoms and to effectively stave off dog food allergies. The fact is that many times, dog food allergies can be completely avoided by simply providing your dog with species-appropriate food. However, the elimination of dog food allergies it is not always so simple. An allergy free dog food for your pooch may or may not be apparently available. So, what is an allergy-free dog food? The best dog food for allergies is one that does not have the one offending allergen your dog finds troublesome. Of course, this could be any one of many foods or additives. Any one of the most common dog food allergies may not be the one that is causing the problem. However, the more common foods and additives are a good place to start.

Dogs food allergies are certainly a growing problem. Some folks try to cook specifically for their canine companion only to find their companion has developed homemade dog food allergies. This is really the same problem, one allergen causing trouble. When a dog has an allergy caused from food, it doesn't matter if the cause is with homemade or commercial chow. Again, if a simple switch to a "safe" species-appropriate dog food doesn't do the trick, then the lone allergen must be identified and eliminated. Some folks will hunt for "dog food for allergies." Again, it is not necessarily a matter of finding correct recipes. Some "safe' recipes may not be effective for your dog. If that is the case, it is a matter of finding the lone allergen causing the problem and eliminating it from the dog's diet. That is the trick in dealing with dog food allergies successfully.

Dog Skin Allergies

2008-12-19T13:12:00.007-05:00

Dog skin allergies are common in dogs. At first, a skin allergy, called atopy, is usually mistaken as a flea infestation. Itching from fleas and itching from an allergy can certainly look the same. It is only when you look closer that you realize there are no fleas. As with humans, irritated skin is a symptom of an allergy. However, there are many other allergy symptoms, especially with food allergies. In this article we discuss only dog skin allergies. Sometimes a canine skin allergy will be caused by an airborne allergen. A common airborne allergen is the most notorious dust mite!

Our houses are filled with dust mites. They are very small creatures that live in our carpets, beds and other soft furnishings. These small creatures feed on human skin flakes that constantly fall from human bodies. These creatures then litter our environment with hard to see fecal pellets. It is these minute fecal pellets that contain the troublesome allergens that affect dogs. Have you sometimes wondered why you sneeze inside your house? More than likely you are responding to dust mite pellets. Dogs respond to the same allergens with itchy skin. In many dogs this is a minor irritant. However, sometimes it can become a major problem. Of course there are many other causes for a dog having itchy skin. Other environmental allergens can exist concurrently or separately from allergies to airborne particles. Veterinarians can conduct sensitivity testing to identify a troublesome allergen.

For treatment, dogs are sometimes given oral medications, although traditionally side effects have always been a problem, so whatever is given must be administered very carefully. Infected skin may need antibiotics. Cortisone tablets may also be recommended. In some cases, an antihistamine will be recommended if your dog has developed asthma, or to support other medication. Each case is different. Sometimes a veterinarian will recommend a hyposensitizing vaccine series, or "allergy shots" that are formulated to your pet's specific needs. Very small doses are started and are gradually increased so the dog's body will slowly get used to these allergens. The dog will need to get a daily shot, administered by the dog's owner, family member, or the dog might have to be transported to the vet, daily. Needless to say, this can be expensive. Also, only about 60% of dogs will eventually show permanent positive results.

In almost all cases, a medicated dog shampoo can be used to stop discomfort and stop the spread of any skin infection that might have taken hold. Infected skin may need washed with medicated dog shampoo as often as twice a week until conditions improve. When washing your dog make sure to use cool water (not hot, not warm and not ice cold) when you bathe your dog.

While a canine food allergy can be cured by identifying a specific food allergen and then eliminating it from the dog's diet, skin allergies from airborne allergens are more a matter of controlling the symptoms than actually curing the allergy. In dealing with Dog skin allergies from airborne allergens patience is required as you should expect set-backs along the way. However, with some trial-and-error with different treatment methods, eventually your dog should respond favorably to a treatment and become a comfortable and contented pooch.

Allergies In Dogs

2008-12-19T13:09:00.006-05:00

A dog's environment including the air and a dog's food are possible sources of allergies in dogs. An allergy is an acquired sensitivity. Our lives have become ever more filled with an ever-growing number of things that can cause allergies. As allergies are becoming more common in humans, so they are also becoming more common in dogs. In fact, dogs are in a position to become more affected by many contaminants in our environment than are humans. This is because dogs walk barefoot or bare paw, and their heads are at a distance that is much closer to ground level than humans. Also, dogs sniff whatever they find on the ground. Conversely, us humans wear shoes and we walk upright, at a much higher level from the ground level. I might also add that humans as a rule do not sniff everything in sight. Thus so, it is only natural that dogs might be exposed to a wider range of environmental contaminants, certainly those on the ground.

What Causes Allergies In Dogs?

An allergy is a reaction to a substance, called an allergen. Therefore, allergens can be thought of as the cause of allergies. (Technically this is not correct, but lets not split hairs.) Allergens can be a wide range of natural substances or unnatural substances. In a manner of speaking, the skin 'breathes in' or absorbs substances and 'breathes out' or eliminates small qualities of toxins through the skin. If the substance being eliminated has become an allergen, then the skin will react and become irritated by swelling and/or itching. Dogs can also become prone to asthma, just like a human. This is a swelling of the inner lining of the airways, which becomes irritated. Breathing could become more difficult. They can have bouts of coughing and wheezing, just like humans. However, the most common form of allergies in dogs is skin irritation. This is usually in the form of skin itching but can also include other specific problems.

Dog Allergies - An Introduction

2008-12-08T12:08:00.012-05:00

Dog allergies are not always obvious. You look down at your dog and he scratches and licks and bites himself. Your first thought is to grab the flea powder thinking that it's a new flea infestation. But is it? Is your dog allergic to something you don't know about? Just like humans, dogs can suffer from all types of allergies. The truth is that allergies in dogs are common. It is thought that one in five dogs suffer from some form of allergy. Most dog owners are only casual observers of their pet. And a casual appraisal of their dog's itching usually leads to the flea power. However, a closer look might show something different.

I should be clear in stating that not all dogs are prone to allergies. In fact many dogs will live out their lives free of allergies. That said, the age of a dog is an important factor. Normally, a dog over one year old will be more prone to an allergy than a dog under one year old. Also, older dogs seem to be subject to allergies more often than younger dogs. So for example, a dog that is eight years old is more likely to be affected by an allergy than a dog three years old. Also, pure-line species dogs seem to be subject to allergies more often than mixed-species dogs. Nevertheless, all of these factors are quite variable as there is no hard and fast rule. The truth is that while all dogs are not prone to allergies, any dog can come down with Dog allergies