We associate allergies as a purely human ailment.
Whenever we hear dog allergies, it is usually interpreted as an allergy
caused by dogs. But dog allergy can also describe the condition of a dog
experiencing an allergic reaction. Yes, your dog can have allergies
too. Dog Allergies
An
allergic reaction occurs when the immune system reacts to an allergen.
Usually allergens are common substances that are harmless, but in
allergic dogs, it triggers the immune system to overreact. This is
generally manifested as different forms of skin irritation like skin
redness, itching, skin infections, and hair loss.
The following are the different types of dog allergies:
- Fleas are parasites that suck blood from your dog. In addition, their saliva becomes an allergen when your dog is exposed to it over time. Aside from the itch and red patches of skin, flea allergies also cause “hot spots.” These are infected areas of skin that your dog has been scratching or chewing on aggressively.
- Flea allergies are simple to treat. There are many special shampoos, medicated sprays, and spot on treatments that will kill fleas. Dog owners must also maintain their dog’s hygiene and provide a clean environment. Baths will not only make your dog clean, but it will help suppress the inflammation and itch. Providing a clean environment helps in preventing fleas from coming back.
- Different kinds of bacteria reside on your dog’s skin. Whenever there is a break or an open sore, bacteria can infect the area, which can result in a worsening of the itch and occasionally an allergic reaction. Antibiotics are used to treat the infection.
- Allergens that come in contact with your dog’s skin causes contact allergy. Allergens that are inhaled causes an allergy called atopy. Allergens that cause atopy and contact allergens are common substances that can be found indoors and out. This makes it virtually impossible to prevent your dog from being exposed to these allergens. For treatment, steroids are used to control the allergic reaction.
Allergies and Arthritis
Allergy
treatments can impede the effects of arthritis treatments. Therefore,
dog owners should be careful with their allergic dogs that have
arthritis.
One such bad combination is
non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (used for dog arthritis) and
cortisone (used for dog allergies). Cortisone is a steroid, which, if
taken at the same time with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can
cause harmful side effects. Aside from that, steroids actually increase
joint deterioration.
Most vets would approach this problem by replacing the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug since there are many alternative medications. If you want to learn more about the topic, you can read past articles on dog allergies. I am also releasing an e-book covering the topic.