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.
Showing posts with label What Should I Do?. Show all posts
Showing posts with label What Should I Do?. Show all posts
Common Sense Dog Allergy Tips
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.
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.
What Should I Do With My Scratching Dog?
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.
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.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
