!Call Now! Button Tablet

!Call Now! Button Desktop

!Social Icons

!Call Now! Icon

Your Dog and Allergies

October 1, 2015

Did you know that pets can suffer from allergies? Just like people, dogs can react to certain substances. Allergies can make our canine friends quite miserable! In this article, a Leesburg, VA vet discusses your dog and allergies.

Symptoms of Allergies

Itching, red, or irritated skin can indicate allergic reactions in dogs as well. Fido’s eyes may run, or appear red or watery, if he has allergies. Canines with allergies may also snore, burp, wheeze, or chew or lick themselves. Recurring ear infections can sometimes be symptomatic of allergies in Man’s Best Friend. Vomiting and diarrhea can also indicate allergies. Occasionally, dogs will suffer severe, extreme reactions, which would induce very serious symptoms, such as seizure or coma.

Common Allergens

Trees, pollen, dust, and mold are a few common allergens in our canine pals. Some dogs are allergic to specific food items, such as wheat, eggs, or corn. Your pooch could also be reacting to something in his shampoo, or even the fibers in your upholstery or carpets. Cigarette smoke, perfumes, and fleas are a few more things that can cause allergic reactions in our furry friends.

Treatment

There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for canine allergies. The treatment will depend on the type and severity of your dog’s allergies. Before recommending treatment options, your vet will first need to pinpoint what Fido is allergic to. This may require blood or skin tests. To identify food allergies, Fido may be put on a very basic diet, with possible allergens being introduced one by one to see what causes reactions. Once your vet has found the culprit, you’ll be able to discuss treatment options and determine the best course of action.

Reducing Allergen Exposure

There are things you can do to reduce the amount of allergens Fido is exposed to. Vacuum frequently, change your air filters regularly. Keep your canine pal off the lawn just after you’ve mowed it, and wipe your pup’s paws down after he’s walked on grass or dust. You’ll also want to be sure that your furry pal’s kibble hasn’t gotten dusty or moldy. Keeping your pooch indoors in mornings and evenings, when the pollen counts peak, may also help. Additionally, we recommend washing pet beds with unscented detergent and hot water.

Do you know or suspect that your four-legged buddy has allergies? We can help! Contact us, your Leesburg, VA veterinary clinic, anytime!