Providing Relief from Dog Allergies

By Joanne Gallagher

Like humans, dogs can suffer from the effects of allergies. Specific Breeds are more prone to have allergies. Among these are Bulldogs, Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Schnauzers, and Terriers. These allergic reactions are usually caused by ingredients found in food.

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.

Suspected dog food ingredients such as preservatives, additives, peanut butter and tomatoes can cause your dog to have allergic reactions; Peanut butter is sometimes found in dog biscuits, and tomato paste is typically found in many dry dog foods. Protein can also cause dog allergies and is present in such items as chicken, beef, carbohydrates, wheat or corn. A diet of lamb and rice is recommended by veterinarians for dogs with such 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.

Many dog allergies are initiated by air-borne and environmental factors. Dogs are often times allergic to trees, grass, pollen and fabrics made of wool or nylon. Other common substances that cause allergic reactions in dogs include plastic, rubber materials, mites, flea bites or insects. After direct contact with these substances, their body responds to these allergens by becoming itchy. Because of the dogs constant scratching they may develop sores which create an optimal location for an unwanted bacterial infection. Dogs sometimes experience symptoms of an allergic reaction yet they did not come in direct contact with the allergen itself. Veterinarians diagnose this as Atopy which is dermatitis caused by inhalation rather than physical contact. This normally occurs as a result of your dog inhaling pollen, dust, mold, or another allergy substance in the air.

Inflammation of the Paws, ears, and face may be a result of dog allergies. Seek advice from your veterinarian about controlling pet allergies. To provide relief and healing to sores on a dog's body, treatments such as fatty acid supplements, hypoallergenic shampoo and hydrocortisone creams are most efficient. Antihistamines may be used to relieve the dogs itching and make your dogs suffering more bearable. There are a few side effects to make note of when using an antihistamine. Among these are sleepiness, hyperactivity, constipation, cotton mouth & a decreased desire for food. Be sure you have consulted your veterinarian before using any medication for your pet.

When dogs have allergic reactions, the allergy frequently presents itself in the form of a sore on the dogs back or stomach. These sores often times force the dog to lick or claw at the infected area causing loss of hair. Food allergies as well as environmental factors can make your dog's life insufferable. Pin pointing the cause of the allergy will improve your pet's life immensely! - 29895

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