Allergies: A General Overview

Allergies can take many shapes! Be on the look out with your pet. (Image Source)

Spring is here! (Finally!!) Along with the change in weather comes a new set of allergens for both people and pets. So while some of us are celebrating others may be experiencing some of the less than wonderful aspects of springs. Today I thought we’d look at a VERY brief overview of the different categories of allergies. We could spend days discussing all the different aspects of allergies and treatments, so for today we will just stick to the basics. Most people are familiar with the common signs of allergies which include itching, licking, red skin and on and off ear infections. Some dogs that have allergies will also have anal glands that need to be expressed more frequently. These are usually what prompt owners to bring pets into the clinic.

 

There are many reasons your dog could be itchy! Working with your veterinarian can help make a plan specific to yoru pet's needs. (Image Source)

There are three main ‘categories’ of allergens. These are food, fleas, and environmental which is also known as atopy. The good news is we can control 2/3 of these. Fleas can be prevented by keeping up on monthly flea prevention (and heartworm prevention for that matter!). Food can also be controlled. There is a LOT of information out there about food allergies. One thing to remember is that to identify a TRUE food allergy your pet must go through a food trial. This means feeding a novel protein (so a protein source they have never seen before such as rabbit, duck or kangaroo) and a novel carbohydrate source. This new diet is fed exclusively (so no treats or supplements!) for 8-12 weeks. If the symptoms clear then we re-challenge with the old food and if symptoms return we know there is a food allergy and we also know what proteins and carbohydrates to avoid. There is a lot of information out there about gluten free, no corn, etc for our pets. While there are certainly dogs that benefit from a more restricted diet, not all dogs need to avoid these products. A food trial is the ONLY way to know your pet has a food allergy.

 

The underside of their feet can tell you a lot of information if your pet is suffering from allergies. (Image Source)

Environmental allergies or atopic dermatitis, are probably the most common allergies and the most frustrating. We have no way to control the environment and short of keeping our pets in a bubble, we cannot prevent them from becoming exposed to these allergens. The most common include grasses, weeds, dust mites and dander. Testing is available to see what your pets top allergens are. In this case many can start therapy to help desensitize the body to the allergens. The testing can be expensive and many people are unable to pursue this option. In that case we are left with managing the symptoms with medications, supplements, shampoos and other topical therapies.

 

Intense itching and hair loss can be seen in many pets with allergies. (Image Source)

Any pet can have one or all three of these categories of allergies. It is important to control what we can. It is important that ANY dog with allergies is on a good flea preventative monthly. They also need to be on a high quality diet, and consider going through a food trial. It is important to work with your veterinarian to determine what will be the most effective course of treatment for your pet’s situation.