Your Dog Allergies Treatment Options

For every seven dogs it is believed there is at least one that has an allergy of some kind. If you find that your furry companion has this condition it can be a difficult situation for both of you to deal with. Dog allergies treatment are easily accessible and provided in a wide variety of forms.

When the immune system has a greater than normal response to a substance, the result is an allergic reaction. A substance that your pet's skin has come in contact with, eaten, or inhaled can be the allergen. As the over excited immune system attempts to expel the allergen from the body the result is allergic symptoms.

Just like humans the symptoms can be diverse in nature and include the respiratory or digestive system as well as the skin. In general there may be itching, sneezing, vomiting, or diarrhea. An owner may notice hair loss, their pet chewing on their paws, snoring, watery eyes, or a change in the usual demeanor of their furry companion.

Humans and dogs share the same ability to be allergic to a number of different substances. Allergic reactions are associated with four basic forms. Canine atopy, food, contact and flea dermatitis.

Allergies to food and fleas is explained by the name. Contact dermatitis is a skin irritation that occurs due to a substance touching the dermis it can be liquid or solid in nature. Canine atopy is the result of something that is inhaled like pollen or mold.

The assistance of a veterinarian may be needed when dealing with an allergic reaction. To handle a inflammation it may be necessary to give your dog steroids, an antihistamine, shampoo, or possibly a topical or oral antibiotic. A canine can develop an anaphylactic reaction which requires immediate emergency attention.

Herbal remedies are available for your use. Topical formulas of chamomile, lavender, peppermint, or rose can provide direct relief to the incredible itching caused by allergies. Oral herbs such as alfalfa, garlic, Echinacea, aloe, and others can be administered. The use of herbs in the treatment regime should be under the supervision of a veterinarian to limit any possibility of a negative outcome. Many herbs can be toxic to dogs if given in the wrong dose.

Sometimes the best way to treat an allergy is to eliminate the allergen. If your pet is suffering from flea dermatitis, this can be corrected by getting rid of the flea infestation. In the event the problem is due to food, it can be frustrating and time consuming to find the ingredient that is causing the response. An elimination diet is the best way to determine what the ingested substance that is creating the symptoms.

Dog allergies treatment can be a difficult task for some owners. Just like humans your pet may have more than one trigger for the allergic response. By working in conjunction with your veterinarian you will be able to identify and treat the cause. The long term goal should be to lessen the immune response or eliminate the allergen from the environment of your pet, this will help to keep both pet and owner in an amicable mood.