Pets and Their Allergies

It may look cute when your pet rubs its face on the carpet or licks its furry paws, but these behaviors could be a symptom of allergies. Yes, pets are sometimes the cause of allergy problems in humans, but animals can also be allergic to substances in their environment. Pet allergies can lead to serious skin or ear infections or digestive upsets. Any pet can develop allergies at any time of its life, but terriers, retrievers and flat-faced dog breeds such as pugs or Shih Tzus are among the most vulnerable.

Symptoms of allergies in your pet include:

• Chewing at paws/red, swollen paws
• Constant licking
• Diarrhea
• Ear infections
• Itching at base of tail, back or ears
• Itchy, watery eyes
• Skin problems: red, scabbed or moist areas
• Sneezing
• Snoring (may be caused by swollen throat tissues)
• Vomiting

Diagnosing and Treating Pet Allergies

At Trinity Pet Hospital we begin the process of allergy diagnosis with a thorough examination. Diagnosing and treating pet allergies takes patience and a good bit of detective work as there are many substances that could be causing the problem. Food and parasites (fleas) are the most common causes of allergies, but environmental and airborne allergens such as dust, mold, medications or cleaning products could also be the problem.

Treating pet allergies often requires the owner to remove potential allergens from the home and environment. A common course of treatment might include:

• Regular use of flea-control medications
• Switching the animal to a low-allergen diet for several weeks
• Diagnostic testing
• Topical medications and/or medicated shampoo
• Supplements to boost skin or immune health
• Anti-allergy medications

If you suspect your pet may be experiencing allergies, let us help you determine the source and develop an effective treatment plan. Just as in humans, allergies can make your pet feel bad and decrease its quality of life while possibly leading to a host of related health issues. Treating the problem now may save your pet much discomfort and future visits to the vet’s office.

Did you know that pets can become allergic to food they have been eating for many years