We all love our furry friends, but sometimes they can have us scratching our heads, as well as theirs, with their itchy skin and sneezing fits. Just like humans, dogs can develop allergies to a variety of things, from pollen and dust to certain foods and even other animals. Allergies can be frustrating and uncomfortable for dogs and can interfere with their daily lives.
The American Veterinary Medical Association says that over 38% of American households own a dog. As a result, a lot of people have to deal with the problem of their dogs developing allergies. Fortunately, there are many treatment options available to help you manage this.
In this article, we’ll explore how to identify dog allergies and the most effective treatments available.
Identifying Allergies
Does your dog suffer from allergies? If so, you’re probably familiar with the frustrating symptoms. According to the American Kennel Club, these symptoms can range from itchiness, swelling or inflammation, vomiting, and diarrhea, all the way to runny eyes. However, you should know that these can also be signs of some other illnesses.
Therefore, even if you suspect your dog has allergies, the final call has to be made by a trained veterinarian. If they conclude it is allergies by ruling out other possibilities, they will run tests to determine what the cause might be. It could simply be a flea allergy, in which case the fleas would be visible on their skin, or it could be a food allergy or an allergy caused by some environmental allergen.
Steroids
Steroid medications, also known as corticosteroids, are a type of drug commonly used to treat dog allergies. They work by suppressing the immune system and reducing inflammation, which can alleviate the symptoms of allergic reactions in dogs, such as itching, redness, and swelling. Steroids may be given orally, topically, or by injection, depending on the severity of the dog’s allergic reaction.
However, steroids can also have potential side effects when used over a long period of time or at high doses. According to the VCA animal hospital, side effects of steroids can include increased thirst, hunger, and a general loss of energy in the short term, as well as the development of UTIs, reduced immunity, and muscle weakness in the long term. Therefore steroids should only be used if advised by a vet.
JAK Inhibitors
JAK inhibitors are a newer class of drugs that work by blocking the signals that cause allergic reactions in dogs. One of the most popular JAK inhibitors is Apoquel, which has been shown to be highly effective in reducing itching and inflammation in dogs with allergies.
Unlike steroids, JAK inhibitors have fewer potential side effects and can be used for longer periods of time. However, they can be more expensive and may not work for all dogs. If you feel JAK inhibitors might be the right choice for your dog, be sure to consult with a veterinarian and proceed according to their recommendation.
But whether you end up buying steroids or JAK inhibitors, Make sure you buy them from a reliable seller. These days you don’t even have to go to the store to get dog medicine. Companies like PetRx take your prescription and deliver everything you need to your doorstep, just like the doctor ordered.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy, also known as allergy shots, is a long-term treatment option for dogs with allergies. It involves injecting the dog with small amounts of the allergen they are allergic to, gradually increasing the dose over time. This helps the dog’s immune system build up a tolerance to the allergen, reducing the severity of their allergic reactions.
Immunotherapy can take several months or even years to be effective but can provide long-term relief for dogs with allergies. It may not be suitable for all dogs and can be expensive and time-consuming. However, Dr. Scott Miller of the University of Illinois says that overall, 60% to 80% of dogs with environmental allergies respond well to allergy shots.
Specialized Diet
Specialized diets are another treatment option for dogs with allergies. These diets typically use novel proteins, such as duck or venison, or hydrolyzed proteins that have been broken down into small molecules that are less likely to trigger an allergic reaction. Some diets also include other ingredients that support skin and coat health, such as omega-3 fatty acids or antioxidants.
While specialized diets can be effective in managing dog allergies, they can also be more expensive than regular dog food and may not work for all dogs. Talk to your veterinarian to determine if a specialized diet is the right choice for your dog’s allergies.
Dog allergies can be a frustrating and challenging problem for pet owners, but there are several treatment options available. It’s important to work closely with your veterinarian to determine the best course of treatment for your dog and to monitor their symptoms closely. With proper treatment and management, dogs with allergies can live happy, healthy lives.
