Respiratory allergies in dogs are one of the most common types of allergies. These allergies are caused by inhaled substances and will cause respiratory symptoms such as wheezing, sneezing, nasal discharges or coughing.
Causes of Respiratory Allergies
Respiratory allergies in dogs occur due to several substances that may be inhaled by the dog:
- Second hand smoking
- Dust mites
- Mold
- Pollens or grasses and tree particles
- Chemicals
Some dogs are more sensitive than others; dogs with other allergies are more likely to develop respiratory allergies as well, due to the fact that allergies are a disease of the immune system. A dog with a weak immune system develops allergies.
Common Symptoms of Respiratory Allergies
The symptoms of respiratory allergies may vary, depending on how sensitive the dog is. Some symptoms may be absent, while others may be severe.
The symptoms of respiratory allergies in canines include:
- Nasal and ocular discharges (a clear transparent discharge)
- Sneezing
- Wheezing
- Coughing
- Panting
- Respiratory problems
- Sometimes skin reactions such as dermatitis, as the inhaled allergens may also affect the skin
- Anaphylaxis in the most severe cases (severe swelling of the face, swelling of airways, low blood pressure, seizures, shock)
These symptoms may be chronic or occur episodically, depending on what causes the allergies.
If the allergies are severe, the dog may also be lethargic and suffer from stress.
Detecting Respiratory Allergies
The detection of respiratory allergies may be done through blood testing. Presently, there are 2 types of tests: the RAST and the ELISA test, which are very similar. These will detect the presence of antibodies that occur when the dog is allergic to a certain substance.
The respiratory allergies may also be detected through intradermal testing. This skin testing will consist of the injection of possible allergens on small portions of the dog’s skin. Whichever injection causes an allergic reaction on the dog’s skin is the allergen that causes the allergies.
Treating Respiratory Allergies
Respiratory allergies don’t have a cure; however, the symptoms may be controlled using drugs. However, allergies are difficult to manage, as dogs react differently to different treatments, so a lot of treatment trials are needed to find a way to manage the allergies.
Most commonly, allergies will be relieved with antihistamines. The immune system produces histamines which cause the respiratory allergy symptoms. The antihistamines will inhibit the production of histamines.
Corticosteroids may also be administered as a short term treatment for respiratory allergies. Corticosteroids may also be used in conjunction with antihistamine drugs for a more effective allergy management.
If the agent causing the allergies is detected, the vet may recommend the administration of an immunization therapy. This therapy consists of periodical shots of the diluted allergen under the dog’s skin and aims at making the dog immune to the allergen. The immunization is a lengthy process and results start to show only after 3 to 6 months, so meanwhile the dog should receive antihistamines or steroids. The allergy shots are not effective in all canines.