Having a Pet with Allergies
Although we already know that humans have allergies, do our pets have allergies as well? The answer is absolutely they do. With millions of people suffering from all kinds of allergies we often do not think that our pets will have them as well.
Dogs in particular are the most common animals to suffer from allergies. The only problem is that the dog can’t tell you whether or not he has allergies. You have to deduce it from watching how he acts and behaves. Many of the symptoms are very similar to ours but rather than humans who react with nasal symptoms, dogs react with skin conditions. They may have rashes, itching behind the ears, swelling of the legs and feet, as well as raw skin around the belly area because of the scratching.
If you see your dog itching then you can’t just assume it is fleas or dry skin. Another cause could be allergies and in that case you should take him to the vet right away. It is important to note when he started itching, and what makes the dog itch more often. Did get a new toy or new dog food? Or does the dog only itch outside? Answering all these questions before heading to the vet will allow your vet to get a better idea on what type of allergy your dog has.
There are many medications that the vet can put your pet on that will lessen their allergic reactions. Most pets do need some sort of medication either oral or topical because unlike humans, animals do not have the ability to control their itching. With humans it is more of a mind over matter thing, whereas with pets they will continue to scratch until their skin is raw and bleeding.
Your vet may prescribe an antibiotic to help just with the wound itself, or an antifungal cream for rashes. Also, your vet will describe what you need to do to remove the allergen from your home. You may have to change foods, take out certain plants or weeds, or even just wash their bedding or replace it with new bedding. Having a pet with an allergy can be difficult because of the work you will have to put into it to get rid of the allergen but in time you will find your pet healing and scratching much less often.
