Seasonal Allergies In Dogs
It’s allergy season. And, if you’re
suffering with a runny nose and itchy eyes, your dog may be, too.
Although dogs can react by sneezing and having a nasal discharge,
many types of dog allergies are seen in the skin. There are five
types of allergies seen in dogs – flea, food, bacterial,
inhalant, and contact. While flea allergies may be more common
during warm weather months, the last two types of allergies –
inhalant and contact – are most likely to be the seasonal
ones.
Seasonal allergies generally occur when the dog inhales the pollen
or when it comes in contact with the allergen. Both of these allergies
are frequently characterized by excessive licking, chewing and
biting around their muzzles, paws, or abdomen. Owners may not
become concerned until they see significant hair loss in these
areas.
A trip to the vet should be the first step in determining the
source of a dog’s allergy and getting treatment options.
Veterinarians can prescribe both antihistamines and steroids to
ease the symptoms.
Some holistic practitioners believe that inhalant or contact allergies
can be tied to food allergies. While a serious food allergy will
be seen in stomach upsets or more serious skin problems, there
is a belief among some dog owners that a mild food allergy coupled
with a seasonal allergy can overwhelm the animal’s defenses
and cause itching or licking at the paws and face.
Some dog owners report that when they switched their pet’s
food to one with a different meat source, or one without grains,
the seasonal allergy symptoms went away. Other owners swear by
raw or BARF diets to eliminate allergies.
But if you plan to switch diets, you need to know what you’re
doing. Switching from one brand or variety of commercial dog food
to another can usually be done without veterinary supervision.
Just do it gradually to avoid diarrhea or stomach upsets.
However, if you are thinking of switching to a raw or even home-cooked
diet, you need some expert advice to make sure the food provides
all the nutrients your dog needs.
Raw diets remain controversial and some vets don’t like
them at all. But, your veterinarian is still the place to start
for advice. There are also many books and websites that offer
ideas on choosing a diet to provide everything your dog needs.
-- by Cheryl Miller, wibc.com
