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Treating Allergies in Dogs |
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Article |
Treating an allergy depends entirely on the source of the
allergen. Around 90% of all dogs suffering with an allergy
can be successfully treated. With mild allergies the vet may
prescribe a simple fatty acid supplement such as Omega 3 or
just a change in the diet. Some dogs react to more than one
allergen having both food and atopic allergies. This is more
complicated and time consuming to treat before achieving a
successful outcome.
The veterinarian will prescribe a mildly
medicated shampoo for bathing the dog in but this only gives
temporary relief. The vet may also prescribe sprays and ointments
to reduce inflammation and itching. Topical medication containing
Hydrocortisone gives the dog some relief from itching but again
this does not have a long term effect.
Dabbing the sore areas
with diluted witch hazel can also reduce the itching. In severe
cases Corticosteroids may be prescribed to reduce inflammation.
These can have side effects leading to an increased thirst
or appetite, excessive urination and even behavioural changes.
Corticosteroids should not be used long term.
Monthly allergy
vaccinations have a 70% success rate though it may be several
months before any improvement is seen. They are also quite
costly and are often not covered by pet insurance companies.
Antihistamines
can also be prescribed to dogs to treat allergies and once
the correct dosage has been assessed they are very effective.
As with antihistamines prescribed for human use they can cause
drowsiness in the dog.
Outside of the veterinary surgery the
dog's owner can make environmental changes to remove allergens
as much as possible. Often dogs are allergic to many of the
household cleaners used in the home every day. Using eco friendly
cleaners may improve the dog’s condition due to the reduced
level of man-made chemicals.
Some dogs are allergic to carpets
which can be rectified by simply changing the floor covering.
Keeping doors and windows shut and the dog indoors when the
pollen count is high helps as does using a vacuum cleaner fitted
with a HEPA filter.
Flea allergies can be treated with a veterinary
prescribed flea treatment. Sprays for the home can be purchased
in most pet shops or from the vet. All bedding should be thoroughly
washed on a hot washing cycle to ensure the dog's bed is cleaned
deeply and effectively. This is one of the most common solutions
to mild or infrequent canine allergies where the source is
hard to trace or isolate. |
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