There has been a dramatic increase in the number of dogs that exhibit allergic reactions in recent years. Skin allergies are the most common reason for dog visits to the vet. Some breeds seem to be more susceptible to developing allergies but overall it is now estimated that one in seven dogs suffers from some type of allergy.
The discomfort is cause by the reaction to the allergen. Your dog may be allergic to certain foods, to inhaling some pollens or molds or be allergic to grass in your yard. The immune response produced by the dog's system produces the symptoms we call allergic reactions.
After the first exposure to a product or allergen the dog's immune system manufactures antibodies. A second and later exposure to that allergen triggers an antibody response releasing histamine into the canine system which is responsible for the physical reaction.
The most common human response to an allergen is respiratory in nature. We may sneeze and nasal cavities may quickly become congested. Our eyes may water and our nose runs.
In dogs, an allergic reaction is most often displayed as a skin problem. Itching is the result and dogs may scratch constantly at their skin trying to relieve that itch. Living with skin that itches uncontrollably can make your dog miserable and unpleasant to be around.
The scratching he does in trying to relieve the itch can cause bare spots on your dog's coat and raw, red patches on his skin. Open wounds may develop which leave the dog open to secondary bacterial and fungal infections that only worsen his skin condition.
There are four categories of canine allergies:
* Flea allergy dermatitis caused by fleas and other biting insects
* Inhaled substances such as grass pollen, molds, weed pollen and dust mites
* Food and drug allergies
* Contact Allergies caused by irritants or materials the dog is allergic to
The first step in identifying a canine skin problem is to address the most common source - fleas. On a light colored dog you can easily see flea dirt which is excrement deposited by the fleas and looking inside the back legs and on the dog's stomach will often see fleas crawling over your dog.
On dogs with dark fur, fleas may not be as visible. Combing with a fine toothed flea comb, however, will often reveal the presence of the parasites. If you place a piece of white paper under your dog, the flea detritus removed by the comb or brush will be easy to see.
Controlling dog allergies is a process of elimination. If fleas are present, it's a problem that can be solved rather quickly.
Capstar is a 24 hour flea killer. Your dog is given one pill only and Capstar kills all adult fleas on your dog within 24 hours. The next day you can apply a topical spot on treatment that will keep your dog flea free by interrupting the life cycle of fleas and killing new fleas as they hatch from eggs laid on your dogs skin.
It is equally important to eliminate fleas in your dog's living quarters by washing his bedding and treating furniture and carpets with flea killing spray or powder. Vacuuming frequently will remove dead fleas and flea eggs from carpet and flooring. It is the combination of treating the dog and his environment that leads to successfully eliminating flea allergy dermatitis causing skin problems for your pet.
The treatment of inhaled substances such as pollens may be needs only seasonally. This type of allergy in dogs is often treated with antihistamines and in severe cases with corticosteroids during the time when the dog is most affected.
Food, drug and contact allergens can be difficult to identify. A veterinarian specializing in dermatology can test your dog by applying a carefully designed pattern of tiny injections where a reaction at an injection site may indicate a source of the allergy. It is possible to design a treatment plan that over weeks or months will desensitize the animal and reduce or eliminate future allergic responses.
Dogs will scratch on occasion but if your dog is frantically scratching during the day there is a good chance he is suffering a skin condition caused by an allergic reaction. A trip to the vet is indicated. Your veterinarian may recommend an allergy medication for your dog that relieves the itch or may advise further testing to identify the problem. Controlling an allergic reaction provides relief for your dog and prevents damaged skin that can result in more serious problems in the future.
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