What Are the Treatments for Dog Allergies?
Many dogs have allergies. Your dog may have itching, skin rashes, hot spots and other allergic reactions. Pollen, fleas, molds, chemicals and dust or other irritants can trigger allergy responses. A hypersensitive dog is uncomfortable and often sick. Seasonal or chronic allergies can pester your dog through a lifetime. Finding the right treatment makes life easier for canine and owner.
Allergy Signs
Your dog may be allergic if it has recurring skin problems. The dog licks at its feet and scratches at armpits or ears. The ears may be hot and inflamed with frequent infections. The skin is often reddish from rubbing. Hot spots appear as red, oozing and itchy areas. A dog that wakes up in the night and obsessively licks its paws or rubs its face probably has allergy problems.
Antihistamines
Veterinary clinics may suggest over the counter (OTC) antihistamines for allergies. OTC remedies available without a prescription include diphenhydramine hydrochloride (Benadryl), loratadine (Claritin), chlorpheniramine (Chlor-Trimeton) or clemastine (Tavist). Do not use pain or decongestant allergy remedies such as Tavist-D, Claritin-D or Benadryl Sinus. Combination ingredients such as acetaminophen or pseudoephedrine can harm the dog. Each dog reacts differently to these medications. Ask your veterinarian for OTC remedies and dosage suited to your dog.
Topical Treatments
When your dog has skin allergies, the irritated skin may have bacterial or yeast infections. These problems are treated with medication and shampoos. Medicated shampoos are effective but must be used for several weeks. The shampoos relieve itching and inflammation while skin heals. If your dog is allergic to pollens or contact irritants, keep washcloths handy. Wipe off the face, paws and ears with a wet washcloth to remove common irritants.
Dietary Supplements
An allergic dog often benefits from balanced fatty acid supplements. These fatty acids help many dogs with skin allergies such as atopic dermatitis. Typical supplements include fish oil or flaxseed. Given with food, they help prevent the allergic response with minimal side effects. Some dog owners have success with herbal supplements to relieve allergies and boost the immune response.
Considerations
Prescription medications are sometimes needed to ease allergies. Other medications may cause allergic reactions. If your dog takes prednisone, steroids or other medications for chronic disease, watch for chronic licking, scratching or skin infection. Consult the veterinarian about these problems and ask how to treat them. Allergy medication can often be given with other medications to keep your dog comfortable.
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