Dogs Get Allergies Too!
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.
Some symptoms of food allergies in dogs and cats are their skin becomes itchy and irritated on their face, feet, ears, forelegs, armpits and the area around the anus. Additional symptoms include frequent ear infections, hair loss, excessive scratching, hot spots, and skin infections that respond to antibiotics but reoccur after antibiotics are discontinued. Dogs with food allergies may have an increased incidence of bowel movements. Dogs without allergies tend to have around 1.5 bowel movements per day where some dogs with food allergies may have 3 or more per day.
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.
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!
Related posts:
- Tips For Dog Caring – Dog Allergies
- Food allergies
- Dogs With Allergies Can Be Subjected To Great Suffering And Food Can Be A Common Source.
- Kinds Of Dog Skin Allergies
- What to do about Dog Allergies
Tagged with: Dog Health
Filed under: Dog Health
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