Elimination, Avoidance or Minimizing Exposure To An Allergen

If the source of a food allergy can be identified, or a flea infestation is eliminated, then the allergy response will (sometimes slowly) go away.

To try to minimize allergies to dust and dust mites, have your dog spend more time in uncarpeted areas. Vacuum more frequently including under beds and other furniture (the robotic vacuum cleaner, the Roomba can be used for daily cleaning and can clean under things), and then keeping the dog out of the vacuumed area for a couple of hours can help. Change furnace filters frequently. Wash dog bedding often in hot water, if dust mites are a problem. Keep the dog off furniture.

If your dog is allergic to mold, try to keep the dog out of the basement, since there is usually some mold present. If you live in a humid area use a dehumidifier. Keep the dehumidifier clean and periodically disinfect. Houseplants can be a reservoir for molds. Do not let your dog on the lawn immediately after mowing. Rinse off your dogs feet after they have been outside.

If your dog is allergic to pollens, during their “allergy season” try to keep the dog out of fields and other areas with high levels of pollen. When the dog is not out for exercise, keep them in the house with windows closed, as much as possible. Rinse off your dogs feet after they have been outside.

Bathing

Bathing the dog regularly may or may not be helpful. Though it will help clean allergens off the coat, for some dogs it may further irritate the skin. See what works best for your dog.

Since the skin of an allergic dog is sensitive, it is suggested that the shampoo used is one that is suitable for allergic dogs, such as Vet Solutions Universal Medicated Shampoo, Excel Hydrocortisone Shampoo or Allermyl Shampoo. The use of an after-shampoo conditioner, appropriate for dogs with allergies, can be helpful for some dogs. An example is Epi Soothe Cream Rinse.

Omega-3 fatty acids

In addition to improving coats, omega-3 fatty acids may help with allergies in some dogs.

Not all dogs respond to omega-3 fatty acids, but for some there will be an improvement either alone, or when combined with other treatments. Omega-3 fatty acids are considered very safe in dogs. Human omega-3 fish oil capsules work fine.

Omega-3 fatty acids take a while to work, so try them for several months before deciding that they do not work. If your dog has a weight problem, try to reduce the fat in your dog’s diet to compensate for the fatty acids. (More information about fish oil supplementation)

Antihistamines

Some of the antihistamines that have been developed for humans can be used in dogs. Only some types of antihistamines work in dogs. The types that are used for dogs are estimated to have some effect for about 30% of dogs.

The most common antihistamine used in dogs is Benadryl (diphenhydramine). This medication has few side effects though it may give some dogs a dry mouth and make them a bit drowsy. At too high doses a dog may be unable to urinate. Typical dosing is 2mg per lb once a day with food or 0.5 to 1mg per lb two or three times per day. Ask your vet what dose is suitable for your dog.

Other antihistamines that are sometimes used for dogs are Chlor-Trimeton (chlorpheniramine), Tavist (clemastine fumarate) and Atarax (hydroxyzine).

Consult your vet before giving an antihistamine for both suitability and dosage for your dog. Antihistamines should not be used in dogs with several health problems including glaucoma, hyperthyroidism and bladder problems unless authorized by your vet.

Hydrocortisone solutions

If a dog has certain areas that are very itchy, a hydrocortisone spray may help. However, since the dog is probably already licking the irritated area, it can be hard to stop the dog licking off the spray. Hydrocortisone sprays with low concentrations are available without a prescription.

Pramoxine is a topical anesthetic that is available with added hydrocortisone. Your vet may prescribe this for treating local severe areas of itching.

If your dog has recurrent ear infections due to allergies, a product such as Zymox Otic Enzymatic Solution with hydrocortisone may be helpful.

Hydrocortisone is a steroid (see steroids section). However, when it is used on the skin (topically), very little is absorbed into the body, there is an extremely low risk of side effects.

Cyclosporine

Cyclosporine (ciclosporin) is an immunosuppressant drug that has been used for many years in humans to reduce rejection of transplanted organs.

It is effective in many dogs. It will take several weeks to start to work. Some dogs will experience diarrhea and vomiting.

Immunotherapy (Hyposensitization)

If the allergen(s) have been identified by allergy testing (usually Intradermal Testing), then immunotherapy can be started.

Commercial companies will incorporate altered versions of the antigen(s) into an injectable solution. A dog will be give injections at intervals. The aim is to desensitize the dog to the allergens.

This treatment has quite a high success rate.

Steroids (Corticosteroids)

Due to fact that steroids can have side effects, and when used for extended periods can cause permanent damage, many vets will try other treatments first, and try to have the dog on the lowest effective steroid dose, for as short a period of time as possible.

In conclusion

Allergies are a problem for many dogs. In dogs allergies will usually cause itchy skin. If the source of the allergy can be identified it may be possible to eliminate the allergic response. Usually the only course of action is to minimize exposure to the allergen and to treat the symptoms.

 
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