What to Look for in Allergy Products for Dogs

Allergy products for dogs should be chosen with care and should be directed at the cause of the allergy. It’s essential to identify the trigger of the allergy before it happens. Some of the symptoms of canine allergy are common to different types of allergies.

Common Symptoms of Allergies in Dogs

Flea Allergies

If you fear that the allergy is caused by fleas then you have to rid your pet and his environment of fleas with the use of products such as flea combs, dog allergy shots, antihistamines, shampoos and bombs.

Inhalant Allergies

An allergy caused by an inhalant such as pollen grains is usually seasonal while an allergy caused by dust can occur throughout the year. Allergy skin tests can usually identify the allergens. Antihistamines are generally effective in treating inhalant allergies, as are dietary supplements that strengthen the body’s immune system. Hydrocortisones, hypoallergenic products and herbal products can help relieve the inflammation, itching and irritation. In addition, there are various shampoos, ointments and sprays that contain natural ingredients specifically formulated for treating allergies.

Food Allergies

If food is a cause of the allergy, you will have to identify the ingredient or ingredients in the food that are causing the allergy and ensure that they are eliminated from your pet’s diet. You should also ensure that the diet you give him is high quality. Anti-inflammatory drugs together with antibiotics and steroids are commonly prescribed for food allergies.

Pros and Cons of Allergy Products

Allergy shots can help the dog’s immune system to be less responsive to allergens. However, they can take up to 12 months to start working and aren’t effective on 25 percent of the dogs receiving them. Antibiotics can help a dog fight allergies caused by bacteria but dogs can become resistant to them with prolonged use and these antibiotics can cause adverse side effects such as:

  • vomiting
  • diarrhea
  • fatigue
  • dizziness

In addition, some antibiotics can’t be administered in conjunction with vitamins or anticoagulants. Non steroid anti inflammatory drugs are normally prescribed to combat canine allergies but can cause:

More Pros and Cons of Dog Allergy Products

Other allergy medications and products are also used to relieve dogs of the discomfort of allergies. Steroids are often prescribed for treating dog allergies but they, too, can have serious side effects, such as:

  • diabetes
  • kidney disorders
  • compromised immune systems
  • ulcers
  • muscle degeneration

Antihistamines are usually prescribed with immune system suppressants such as steroids or corticosteroids. Side effects of antihistamines are seizures, sedation, respiratory depression, coma and sometimes death. Even medicated shampoos can have serious side effects such as rash, hives, respiratory distress and swelling of the face, legs, tongue and eyes.

Natural Products to Combat Canine Allergies

Natural tonics that contain herbs and salts such as horsetail, dandelion and spirulina can heal most chronic and acute skin conditions and strengthen the pet’s immune system. 

You should ensure that the products you use to combat your pet’s allergy are beneficial and not harmful to your pet.

 

Comments