Skin Allergies

Allergies can be a very painful and frustrating problem. Since they are chronic and hard to control, an early and correct diagnosis is important. Skin allergies are caused by a dog's hypersensitivity to dust mites, pollen, and mold. The first signs are excessive biting and scratching. Your pet may also have inflamed skin and suffer from hair loss. Unfortunately a reaction to dust mites and pollen is not the only thing that causes excessive itching. Side effects of other allergies such as food, flea, inhalant and contact are skin problems. Excessive scratching and biting is the symptom that most annoys dog owners and the results of it are the most visible signs of skin allergies. Before treating your pet for skin allergies, skin irritants, food and parasites, will have to be ruled out as causes of this disease. Dogs with skin allergies are at risk for skin infections.

All of the possible causes of skin allergies make it a very difficult problem to treat. There is no cure for skin allergies as of now. However vets are able to manage the problem and make the dog more comfortable through a variety of treatments. First they will try to rule out any other causes such as fleas and food allergies. Some shampoos and flea treatments cause skin reactions also. Proper grooming and shampooing, especially for long haired dogs, is important. It keeps the skin properly moisturized and healthy and helps manage bacterial infections that complicate skin allergies. Antihistamines are also used but are not very effective alone. Given along with other treatments they can be part of an effective solution. Supplements of omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acid are helpful and have no known side effects. Switching to a trial diet to rule out food allergies and to provide the proper nutrients for a healthy coat may be something your vet suggests.

A controversial but effective method of treatment is steroids. Steroids have several negative side effects such as weight gain, cause thirst, make the bladder more prone to bacterial infections, and long term treatment may cause diabetes later. It also suppresses the immune system, which is good for allergies, but can also prevent the immune system from fighting off other infections.

Your vet will have the best advice and treatment program for your pet so following their advice is very important.