Dogs suffering from allergic reactions to one or more allergens in the environment may experience great discomfort. In most cases, a combination of treatments including environmental adaptations, anti-histamine medicines and dog allergy shampoo and ointment is helpful in reducing the symptoms of the allergy. However, these treatments do not address the source of the allergy itself, and can merely help to alleviate the symptoms of the adverse reaction. In order to entirely eliminate your pet's allergic reaction, it is necessary to identify and extract the allergen from his environment. Continue reading for more information about dog allergy shampoo.
When to Use Dog Allergy Shampoo
Dogs suffering from atopic allergies, allergies related to particles of dust or mites in the air, are the most likely to benefit from an allergy shampoo treatment. Atopic allergies typically involve allergens like pollen, airborne parasites, chemicals and other small particles. Dogs with atopic allergies may experience skin irritation and swelling, redness, excessive itching and lesions, among other symptoms.
Dog allergy shampoo can help to address the symptoms of atopic allergies. Most allergy shampoos are medicated with an anti-histamine or pain reliever of some kind to help soothe your pet's itching and sore skin and reduce swelling and inflammation.
Although instructions vary depending upon the particular shampoo, most dog allergy shampoos are intended for use about once per week. In more severe cases, the shampoo may be used with increased frequency. However, these cases oftentimes require additional treatment methods as well, and it is advisable that you visit a vet if your pet's atopic allergies persist or worsen over time.
Other Dog Allergy Shampoo Information
Dog allergy shampoos are either available at pet stores or by veterinary prescription. If you suspect that your pet suffers from atopic allergies and may benefit from a medicated shampoo, first consult with your veterinarian. He will examine your dog and run a series of tests in order to determine the exact nature of the allergy. If an allergy shampoo may help to alleviate your pet's symptoms, your veterinarian will be able to help identify the correct shampoo given your situation.
As with other allergies, a treatment of the symptoms will not fully eradicate the adverse reaction to the allergen. Rather, you must work together with your veterinarian to reduce your pet's exposure to the offending allergen once it has been determined. The most common ways of reducing this exposure involve replacing linens and bedding with hypo-allergenic materials, controlling the atmosphere of your home with an air purifier or dehumidifier and limiting your pet's exposure to the outdoors.
Many pet owners find that a combination of allergy treatment programs and lifestyle changes provide the best protection against future reactions. Although it is impossible to eliminate your pet's allergic reaction, you can dramatically reduce his symptoms and the frequency of his outbreaks with the proper prevention techniques and medicines.