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Dramatic Increase In Canine Allergies – Pet Meds For Dog Allergic Reactions

September 17th, 2010 by Guest Author

Dog allergies affecting the animal’s skin are the most common reason for visit to the veterinarian. Some breeds are more likely to suffer from allergies than others; the current estimate is one in seven dogs is affected by allergic reactions. The immune response may be due to some foods, inhaling pollens, dust or molds or be caused by the grass in your yard.

After the first exposure to a product or allergen the dog’s immune system manufactures antibodies. A second and later exposure to that allergen triggers an antibody response releasing histamine into the canine system which is responsible for the physical reaction. The most common human response to an allergen is respiratory in nature. We may sneeze and nasal cavities may quickly become congested. Our eyes may water and our nose runs.

In dogs, an allergic reaction is most often displayed as a skin problem. Itching is the result and dogs may scratch constantly at their skin trying to relieve that itch. Living with skin that itches uncontrollably can make your dog miserable and unpleasant to be around. The scratching he does in trying to relieve the itch can cause bare spots on your dog’s coat and raw, red patches on his skin. Open wounds may develop which leave the dog open to secondary bacterial and fungal infections that only worsen his skin condition.

There are four categories of canine allergies: * Inhaled substances such as grass pollen, molds, weed pollen and dust mites * Contact Allergies caused by irritants or materials the dog is allergic to * Flea allergy dermatitis caused by fleas and other biting insects * Food and drug allergies

The first step in identifying a canine skin problem is to address the most common source – fleas. On a light colored dog you can easily see flea dirt which is excrement deposited by the fleas and looking inside the back legs and on the dog’s stomach will often see fleas crawling over your dog. On dogs with dark fur, fleas may not be as visible. Combing with a fine toothed flea comb, however, will often reveal the presence of the parasites. If you place a piece of white paper under your dog, the flea detritus removed by the comb or brush will be easy to see. Controlling dog allergies is a process of elimination. If fleas are present, it’s a problem that can be solved rather quickly.

If your dogs is infested with fleas, Capstar is a one time dose of flea killer that will destroy all adult fleas within 24 hours. Following the use of Capstar, applying a topical product the next day will begin to interrupt the life cycle of the parasites and kill new fleas as they hatch.

Killing fleas on your dog is only part of the process as fleas must also be killed on pet bedding and throughout your home. After using flea killing spray or powder, vacuum carpet and furniture to remove dead fleas and wash the pet bedding in hot water weekly. It is the combination of flea killing methods that will result in a solution to flea allergy dermatitis. Corticosteroids are often used to bring several flea allergy reactions under control while antihistamines may also be recommended by your vet for treatment.

Dogs scratch and that’s normal. It is not normal for animals to scratch continuously and that activity may dictate a visit to your vet. He may recommend and over the counter or prescription pet med to control the itching if he feels the problem is seasonal or temporary. Following the advice of your vet will result in a happier, more comfortable dog free of allergy symptoms.

Stop the itching misery of dog allergic reactions with discount canine allergy meds from Pet Scripts Direct. Buy with confidence online from a practicing veterinarian.

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A Remedy For Seasonal Allergies

August 31st, 2010 by Guest Author

Are you one of the millions that suffer from allergies? Are you looking for information on allergy remedies? If you are a chronic victim of the distressing effects of allergies then it’s high time you found an effective allergy remedy. There are several allergy remedy medications available on the market.

In order to effectively treat your allergies, you need to find the allergy remedy most aligned with your symptoms and needs. You have several avenues to choose from when searching for an allergy remedy. These avenues include: home remedies, allergy medication, environmental modifications, and a consultation with an Allergist.

Let’s start with home remedies. Home allergy remedies were used before allergy medications surfaced on the medical scene. Be wary of many home remedies. Many of these remedies are based on “old wives tales”.

However, there are some steps you can take at home that do work. For example, if you have an allergy to pollen you can minimize its effects by washing your clothing and hair when come home. Make sure to do this before you go to bed, so that you won’t spread any of the pollen onto your bedding.

Allergy medications are a wonderful allergy remedy. You can use over the counter antihistamine pills, lotions, and ointments. If you have a chronic allergy you can consult your physician for a stronger prescription allergy remedy. Nasal sprays are also a great tool against allergies. They act as a direct allergy remedy to your nasal passageways.

There are a few environmental modifications you can make as an allergy remedy. Wash bedding in hot water to remove dust mites. Use mattress and pillow covers to fight against dust mites. Keep your home clean and carpets vacuumed.

If you have severe allergies that can’t be managed with basic allergy remedies then head to your physician or allergist. They can take you through a series of allergy testing and provide the best treatment options for your situation. This may involve removing the allergy culprit from your environment, food plate, or clothing drawer. They can provide prescription allergy medication to knock your allergy out cold.

You can find more Allergies Articles at Submit Articles

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