Did you know that just like humans, pets can have allergies as well? I have to admit I did not realize this until my family adopted our Chi-Weenie. She did really well during our time in Texas but after PCSing to a colder climate I started to notice changes in her skin. Her itching increased and she started experiencing inflammation. After a visit to the vet we realized she had allergies.
The most common allergies are usually caused by fleas, food or the environment. Environmental allergies can be caused by pollen, mold spores and dust mites. While allergies can’t be cured, you can definitely manage them. Luckily, there are over the counter antihistamine pills, allergy shots and nasal corticosteroids that can help a great deal so your pet is comfortable and symptom free. If your pet does experience flare ups a trip to the vet may be needed. I definitely recommend calling as soon as you can in case there is a wait list before you can get in for an appointment.
When your pet is experiencing seasonal allergies you may notice scratching more than usual, sneezing, licking of the paws or extreme shedding. They could also have respiratory issues like coughing and wheezing.
To prevent flea allergies it's always good to ensure your pet is on a safe and effective flea control. While you may or may not see fleas right away, some signs to look for are biting at their rear or near their tail. If you notice your pet jumping up from a resting position this could be a sign they could have felt a flea bite.
Food allergies can be a little tricky because there is no accurate lab test to check, however adjusting your pets diet can help. It's best to stick to one food and keep a log of which foods you have tried in the past, so you’ll know which ingredients might be triggers for the allergy.
While there’s no cure, allergies can be managed and it's important to note that allergies can develop and change over time. So keep an eye out for your furry friend!
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