Dog Allergies
Dogs, like humans, are capable of experiencing allergic reactions to a variety of things. The difference between humans and dogs though is that while we express our allergic reactions in terms of hives and head congestion, dogs react with skin problems. The skin problems that can be expressed due to an allergic reaction include poor coat texture and length, itching and chewing, hot spots, and self mutilation. In addition, allergies may be the cause of a dog’s chronic ear infections.
Dog allergies are not nearly as easy to diagnose as human allergies. Typically, there is not an allergy specialist for a dog to visit. In addition, when there is an allergy specialist available, the problems the dog may be exhibiting may be the result of thyroid disease. This disease is frequently the culprit in poor skin health.
Again, just like humans, there are a variety of allergens. Allergens can be inhaled, ingested, or the result of an animal biting the dog. The most common culprit is the flea.
Inhalant allergens include such typical allergens as pollens, dust mites, and mold. When attempting to diagnose the cause of your dog’s discomfort, it can be exceptionally helpful to note when the dog has its allergic reaction. The reactions can be year round or seasonal. When the reaction is year round, it is most likely caused by dust or mold as these are present in the air all the time. When the reaction is seasonal, it is more likely to be some pollen upsetting the dog. The symptoms of inhaled allergies include scratching, biting, chewing at feet, and constant licking.
Food allergies are really food sensitivities. This type of allergy is manifested as itchy skin. When a dog is experiencing a reaction to some food, he or she is likely to exhibit anal itching, head shaking, ear inflammation, licking of the front paws, and rubbing the face on carpeting. In rare instances, a dog may vomit, have diarrhea, have gas, sneeze, experience asthma-like symptoms, behavioral changes, and seizures. Many owners do not suspect a food allergy because their dog has been eating the same food for its entire life. Just like people, though, dogs can develop sensitivity over time.
Flea allergies are due to the dog being allergic to a protein in the flea’s saliva. This type of allergy is most common in dogs who have limited exposure to fleas.
If you would like more information on dog allergies and other issues for dogs, please visit http://austinveterinarianclinics.com/articles.aspx.
Joseph Devine
Tags: Austin Animal Care, Austin Animal Health, Austin Vet, Austin Vet Clinic, Austin Veterinarian, Austin Vets
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