Providing Relief from Dog Allergies

By Joanne Gallagher

Many dogs can suffer from allergic reactions to various things. Breeds such as Bulldogs, Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Schnauzers, and Terriers may be genetically pre-disposed to allergies, specifically, allergies caused by ingredients found in food.

Food allergies may manifest themselves in cats and dogs in the following ways: Their skin becomes itchy and irritated on their face, feet, ears, forelegs, armpits and amongst the area around the base of the tail. In addition, 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. Increased incidence of bowel movements is another symptom of dogs with food allergies. Dogs normally have around 1.5 bowel movements daily, where food allergies may increase the frequency to 3 or more per day.

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.

You can prepare allergy free pet food for dog at home. Remember, dogs love fresh vegetables such as carrots, broccoli and cauliflower. Keep in mind that vegetables also provide additional benefits that will help your dog or cat live a longer more healthy life. Be sure to change your dog's diet gradually as 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.

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! - 31975

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