Pet Allergies and Pet Care from a Veterinarian on Our Veterinary Team
Allergies can be a problem for pets, as well as people. Allergies are an annoyance but they can cause serious problems in some instances. At Doggie Dude Ranch, in Ames, IA, we provide allergy treatment, along with other veterinary services.
Types of Allergies
There are a few types of allergies that you should be aware of. Each has different causes and symptoms.
Skin Allergies
Skin allergies are one type of allergy. The symptoms of skin allergies in pets include frequent scratching or licking, rashes or bumps, lesions on the skin, and hair loss. Skin allergies can be triggered by environmental allergens, including grass, pollen, and dust. Flea bites can also trigger a skin allergy.
Pets can also develop food allergies, which can cause skin allergy symptoms. Your pooch may also experience sneezing, scratching, and ear infections.
Food Allergies
Some pets have true food allergies, while others have food sensitivities. Food allergies trigger an immune response, while food sensitivities do not. Both can cause symptoms, as well as gastrointestinal problems. Gastrointestinal symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite.
Symptoms of anaphylaxis can include itching, stomach upset, excessive drooling, and difficulty breathing. These symptoms require immediate veterinary care, and can be fatal.
Potential food allergens include beef, wheat, chicken, eggs, soy, dairy, and fish.
Acute Allergic Reactions
Most allergies are relatively minor, but acute allergic reactions are more serious. These are known as anaphylactic reactions, and can be fatal if not treated quickly. Insect bites or stings, vaccines, and food proteins can cause of this type of reaction. Symptoms include hives, swelling of the face, excessive drooling, stomach upset, and trouble breathing.
Allergy Treatment
When possible, a good “treatment” for allergies is to avoid exposure. If your pet has a food allergy, you'll need to change to a diet free of the allergen. However, many allergens, like grass or pollen, can't be avoided completely. In this case, your pooch may need a prescription allergy medication from a veterinarian. If your pet has an anaphylactic reaction, you'll need immediate veterinary care.
Get Pet Care from a Veterinarian on Our Veterinary Team at Our Animal Hospital
If your pet is suffering from allergies in Ames, IA, contact us at Doggie Dude Ranch. We offer animal hospital services, including veterinary care, and pet care services, and more to keep your furry friend happy and healthy. Call us at (515) 382-1444 for more information about pet care for sneezing, itching, scratching, and other pet allergy symptoms.
