How can you determine whether your dog is allergic?

Sep 14

Before you hire a professional pet sitter near you, you should be able to give them a heads-up if your pet dog has allergies. But most of us don't even know if our pest has allergies. So how can you, as a pet owner, determine whether your dog has allergies?

Your dog may have allergies if they suddenly start scratching themselves more, experiencing problems with their anal glands, shedding more than usual, or developing a frequent licking habit. Dogs can exhibit allergic reactions to commonplace items, just like people can. When a foreign substance or object is exposed to your dog's immune system, allergies might develop.

Allergy Symptoms and Signs

Some other allergy indications and symptoms are sneezing, watery eyes, itching ears or ear infections, diarrhoea, or paw-biting or swollen paws.

Dogs can acquire allergies anytime, but terriers, retrievers, setters, bulldogs, pugs, and other flat-faced breeds appear more susceptible to allergic reactions. In addition, dogs may react negatively to a variety of substances. Here are some of the most common:

Pollen from trees, weeds, and grasses

Mould spores

Dust mites

Cigarette smoke

Perfume or cologne

Fabric softener or dryer sheets

Cleaning solutions

Rubber or latex gloves

Flea bites

Food ingredients

Identifying the exact thing that gave your dog allergies may sometimes be challenging.

Parasites

Since parasites are always present, dogs' and cats' fur can pick up mites from tall grass. The larvae of the mites reside on the skin of mammals like cats and dogs but typically feed on plants and insects. They may trigger an allergic reaction that results in dermatitis, a skin infection that needs to be treated with corticosteroids and antibiotics. Most mite infestations are treatable with a straightforward anti-parasitic wash available at most pet stores. However, it is recommended to see your veterinarian first to ensure you are using a suitable wash.

Specific Foods

You can also try a food elimination diet, which is an eating regimen that excludes a meal or set of foods thought to produce an unfavourable food reaction, commonly known as a "food intolerance," for a specified length of time before reintroducing them during a subsequent "challenge" phase. Finally, you can try hypoallergenic dog food from some pet food manufacturers to see if it helps your pet's symptoms for a week or two.

An allergy test

The veterinarian can advise allergy testing if those therapies don't work. Dogs can undergo two kinds of allergy tests: skin and blood tests. There are benefits and drawbacks to both of these tests. A blood test is advantageous since the dog can continue taking any drugs that are currently helping the dog with its allergies, but it is frequently less accurate than the skin test. However, a dog must be off any allergy-related medicine for a month before testing because a skin test is significantly more accurate than a blood test. When it comes to dogs with severe allergies, this is frequently difficult.

The findings of these two tests led to the development of vaccinations that would desensitize your dog to those particular allergies. Similar to how they are given to humans, these immunizations are given in phases of varying potencies. Your veterinarian will provide instructions on how to give these vaccinations at home. These shots have consistently demonstrated their efficacy. They might not be your dog's best option, though.

If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, it's best to take them to the vet for a checkup. The vet can give you a more specific diagnosis and rule out other potential causes for your pet's symptoms. Then, with the proper diagnosis, you'll be able to find suitable treatment options for your pet and provide them with the relief they need.

If you think your pet may have allergies, contact your veterinarian. An allergy test may be necessary to pinpoint the source of the problem so that you can take steps to protect your pet from further exposure and provide appropriate treatment.

Here at Animal People Pet Sitting & Dog Walking, we understand how frustrating it can be to deal with a pet with allergies. That's why we take extra precautions and keep in mind any information that can help us care for your pet in the best way possible. If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us. We're always happy to help!

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