Relief from Dog Allergies
Any dog can suffer from canine allergies. Some breeds such as Bulldogs, Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Schnauzers, and Terriers appear to be genetically pre-disposed to allergies, in particular, allergies caused by food ingredients.
Food allergies usually cause the dog’s skin to become itchy and irritated on and around the face, feet, ears, forelegs, armpits and near the dogs sphincter. Frequent inner ear infections, loss of hair, extreme scratching, hot spots, and skin infections that may respond to antibiotics but return after the antibiotics are completed are all common effects of dog allergies. If your dog displays an increased incidence of bowel movements it may also be a sign of food allergies. In general, dogs have around one and a half bowel movements per day, whereas food allergies usually increase the amount to three or more daily.
Ingredients in dog food such as preservatives, additives, peanut butter and tomatoes cause allergic reactions. Peanut butter is sometimes an ingredient in dog biscuits, while tomato paste is sometimes an ingredient in dry dog food. Dogs can also be allergic to protein, such as chicken, beef, or carbohydrates such as wheat and corn. Veterinarians recommend a diet of lamb and rice for dogs with allergic reactions.
What most people don’t realize is that you can prepare allergy free pet food for dog at home. Remember, dogs love fresh vegetables such as carrots, broccoli and cauliflower. Bear in mind that vegetables not only prevent allergic reactions but also provide added benefits that will provide your dog or cat with a longer healthier life. A gradual transformation between diets is recommended to avoid stomach problems.
Some dog allergies are caused by environmental factors. Pets are frequently allergic to trees, grass, pollen and fabrics made of wool or nylon. Others environmental causes include plastic, rubber materials, mites, flea bites or insects. After their body’s become exposed to these substances, they respond to these allergens by becoming itchy. If dogs scratch at the irritant too much, they may develop sores which create an ideal place for a bacterial infection. When dogs are not in direct contact with the allergen but still experience symptoms, Atopy is usually the reason. Atopy is dermatitis caused by inhalation rather than physical contact. This normally occurs as a result of inhalation of pollen, dust, mold, or any allergy substance in the air.
Dog paws, ears, and face are likely to become inflamed by allergies. Talk to your veterinarian about controlling pet allergies. Some treatments such as fatty acid supplements, hypoallergenic shampoo and hydrocortisone creams are used to heal sores on a dog’s body. Antihistamines are also used in veterinary medicine to relieve the dogs itching and make life more comfortable. Since there are side effects when using an antihistamine such as: sleepiness, hyperactivity, constipation, dry mouth & lack of appetite, be sure you have consulted your vet.
When dogs have allergies, the allergy usually manifests itself on the back or belly as sores forcing the dog to lick or scratch the area which sometimes causes their hair to fall out. Food and/or environmental culprits can make your dog miserable. Identifying the source of the allergy will make your pet’s quality of life 100% better!
Like humans, dogs can experience from the effects of allergies. But they can be controlled by consulting your veterinarian. In addition Joanne Gallagher recommends checking out Jakes Dog House for all natural, holistic dog treats, glucosamine dog food and organic dog biscuits.
