Caring for a Dog With Allergies

Do you know or suspect that your dog may have allergies? Just like people, our canine pals can become allergic to a wide variety of substances, including mold, pollen, and dust. Fido can even react to ingredients in his food or shampoo, or to certain materials. Read on for some great advice from Fairfield Animal Hospital, your Cypress, TX animal clinic, on caring for dogs with allergies.

Veterinary Care

First and foremost, if you think Fido may have allergies, bring him to the vet for a professional diagnosis. Some common signs of allergies in dogs include itchiness; skin problems; recurring ear infections; sneezing; red eyes; snoring; burping; vomiting; and diarrhea. Your vet will run some tests to determine exactly what it is that your canine pal is reacting to. Once the allergen has been identified, you’ll be able to discuss specific treatment options. These could range from medication to special diets.

Airborne Allergens

Many of our canine friends react to airborne allergens, such as dust, mildew, and pollen. Vacuuming and dusting regularly, and changing your air filters frequently, will help reduce the amount of allergens in your home. We also recommend washing Fido’s bedding in hot water, using a non-allergenic detergent. Fido can pick up pollen and dust on his paws and belly just by walking through the yard, so wipe his tummy and paws down with a damp cloth each day. This will help reduce the amount of allergens in his fur. During peak pollen times, try to walk your pooch early in the morning and during the evening, when pollen counts are lowest. You may also want to check local newspapers and websites for pollen counts, and keep your furry buddy indoors when they are high.

Food Allergens

If Fido has food allergies, your vet may recommend he be put on a special diet. Follow any dietary advice to the letter. This means it’s very important for you to resist those sad puppy-dog eyes at the dinner table! Your furry pal may really want that hot dog, but it’s up to you to make sure he doesn’t eat anything that could make him sick. Also, let guests know not to feed your pooch unless you specifically give permission. If you think your dog may have allergies, please call us, your Fairfield Animal Hospital, your Cypress, TX animal clinic. We’re here to help!