Articles Dog Skin Problems Itchy Dog-Inhalant Allergy
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| Itchy Dog-Inhalant Allergy |
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| Written by Webmaster | |
| Wednesday, 18 June 2008 | |
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Most dog skin allergies are due to airborne substances and they produce symptoms such as an itchy dog and dog ear infections. A allergy diagnosed as an inhalant allergy is identified by itchiness at first linked to a season or environment that may later become constant. This dog skin allergy often starts in young adulthood (ages one to four). The behaviors of the dog usually include paw-licking, face rubbing, belly-licking; and recurrent dog ear infections. Treatment for dog skin allergies from environmental factors include fish oil supplements, oral antihistamines, weekly baths with colloidal oatmeal shampoo, antihistamine or corticosteroid sprays, hyposensitization therapy (allergy shots) corticosteroid injection or tablets (rarely used). Different antihistamines work better for different dogs. If your dog has been on one antihistamine and it hasn't helped, talk to your vet about trying another. Four antihistamines that work well for many dogs include diphenhydramine (Benadryl), hydroxyzine (Atarax), clemastine (Tavist), and cetirizine (Zyrtec). Talk to your vet for the appropriate dose for your dog. Hyposensitization therapy or allergy shots is an option so people choose for their animal companions. The principal is to periodically inject into the skin minute amounts of the purified substance or substances your dog is allergic to, so he will develop and increased tolerance to them. Individual dogs must be tested for the allergens and have a formula created for their specific allergies. This option can be expensive and time consuming and may not be available for every dog. |
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