Dramatic Increase In Canine Allergies - Pet Meds For Dog Allergic Reactions

Dog allergies affecting the animal's skin are the most common reason for visit to the veterinarian

. Some breeds are more likely to suffer from allergies than others; the current estimate is one in seven dogs is affected by allergic reactions. The immune response may be due to some foods, inhaling pollens, dust or molds or be caused by the grass in your yard.

When people suffer from allergies, they may have nasal congestion, watery eyes and frequent sneezing. In dogs the first exposure to an allergen leads the immune system to produce antibodies - which happens in people, too. Subsequent exposure to the allergen causes an automatic immune response which releases histamine into the canine's system. It is that histamine that is responsible for the physical reaction that occurs.

In dogs, an allergic reaction is most often displayed as a skin problem. Itching is the result and dogs may scratch constantly at their skin trying to relieve that itch. Living with skin that itches uncontrollably can make your dog miserable and unpleasant to be around. The scratching he does in trying to relieve the itch can cause bare spots on your dog's coat and raw, red patches on his skin. Open wounds may develop which leave the dog open to secondary bacterial and fungal infections that only worsen his skin condition.

There are four categories of canine allergies: * Flea allergy dermatitis caused by fleas and other biting insects * Inhaled substances such as grass pollen, molds, weed pollen and dust mites * Food and drug allergies * Contact Allergies caused by irritants or materials the dog is allergic to

The first step in identifying a canine skin problem is to address the most common source - fleas. On a light colored dog you can easily see flea dirt which is excrement deposited by the fleas and looking inside the back legs and on the dog's stomach will often see fleas crawling over your dog. On dogs with dark fur, fleas may not be as visible. Combing with a fine toothed flea comb, however, will often reveal the presence of the parasites. If you place a piece of white paper under your dog, the flea detritus removed by the comb or brush will be easy to see. Controlling dog allergies is a process of elimination. If fleas are present, it's a problem that can be solved rather quickly.

Capstar is a 24 hour flea killer. Your dog is given one pill only and Capstar kills all adult fleas on your dog within 24 hours. The next day you can apply a topical spot on treatment that will keep your dog flea free by interrupting the life cycle of fleas and killing new fleas as they hatch from eggs laid on your dogs skin.

It is equally important to eliminate fleas in your dog's living quarters by washing his bedding and treating furniture and carpets with flea killing spray or powder. Vacuuming frequently will remove dead fleas and flea eggs from carpet and flooring. It is the combination of treating the dog and his environment that leads to successfully eliminating flea allergy dermatitis causing skin problems for your pet.The treatment of inhaled substances such as pollens may be needs only seasonally. This type of allergy in dogs is often treated with antihistamines and in severe cases with corticosteroids during the time when the dog is most affected.

Dogs will scratch on occasion but if your dog is frantically scratching during the day there is a good chance he is suffering a skin condition caused by an allergic reaction. A trip to the vet is indicated. Your veterinarian may recommend an allergy medication for your dog that relieves the itch or may advise further testing to identify the problem. Controlling an allergic reaction provides relief for your dog and prevents damaged skin that can result in more serious problems in the future.

by: D. Thurmond, D.V.M..

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