And My Dog

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 due to the environment. Pets are commonly allergic to trees, grass, pollen and fabrics such as wool or nylon. Others environmental causes would include plastic or rubber materials, mites, flea bites or insects. Their body responds to these allergens by becoming itchy. When dogs scratch too much, sores develop which creates a perfect place for a bacterial infection to manifest itself. When a dog is not in direct contact with the allergen, Veterinarians diagnose dermatitis by inhalation, aka Atopy, which is an allergy that results from 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!

Like people, dogs can experience from the effects of allergies. By contacting your veterinarian, they can be controlled. In addition Joanne Gallagher recommends checking out Jakes Dog House for all natural, holistic dog treats, glucosamine dog food and organic dog biscuits.