All dog owners should know how to recognize dog allergy symptoms. The same substances that trigger a hypersensitive response in humans may also affect dogs. Reports of these reactions in both humans and animals has increased. The substances are in themselves harmless. But, to certain persons or animals they are allergens.
Allergies do not occur with the initial exposure. They develop over time. In some cases, it is with the first exposure. The immune system builds antibodies to oppose the next encounter with the offending agent. With the next contact, white blood cells, known as mast cells, attack the allergen. A substance called histamine is released, and symptoms occur.
The skin disorders of allergic response is quite miserable to dogs. Rashes, redness, and bumps result in intense itching. In attempts to obtain relief, the animal scratches, causing abrasions. The skin breaks often become infected, causing more discomfort. This frequently results in hair loss at the site and surrounding area. The continual discomfort may cause hyperactive behaviours to be exhibited.
Atopic allergies occur most frequently. These are from inhalation of various substances. Molds, dust, pollen, smoke, air fresheners, and other airborne particles are causative agents. According to some veterinarians, a combination of airborne and skin contact sources are the cause of symptoms.
Contact dermatitis allergy is another type. The usual causes are grass, bushes, lawn treatments, fabrics, carpet fibers, or plastics. Perfumed shampoos, or any topical substance may be the culprit. Reddened, itchy bumps appear on the skin. Hair loss occurs as a result of intense scratching.
Dogs do not have flea allergies. But they are allergic to a protein in flea saliva. However, those that are accustomed to fleas seem to have some degree of resistance to it. Those that are not accustomed, once exposed to them may develop sensitivity quickly. The bite areas become inflamed and itchy. Hair loss usually occurs.
Food intolerance is not food allergy. Intolerance usually causes flatus, diarrhea, and vomiting. Allergies exhibit as signs of itching. Chewing the feet, and scratching any area of the body are usual manifestations. Scooting on the lawn or carpet may indicate anal itching. Foods which often cause allergies are beef, chicken, pork, fish, eggs, grains, and dairy products. Other foods may actually be toxic and result in serious illness or death. Chocolate, raisins, grapes, and onion are a few of these. For safety reasons, one should refrain from giving table foods to pets. Allergies can be due to dog food that the animal is used to eating. This is especially true with cheaper brands. Occasionally, even quality brands have caused allergic response.
Other conditions, such as sarcoptic mange, may mimic signs of allergy. It is caused by mites which burrow under the skin, causing itching and rash. Treatment must be with specific medication that kills the mites. Cool baths may temporarily relieve many skin discomforts. For effective treatment, accurate diagnosis by a veterinarian must be made.
Allergies do not occur with the initial exposure. They develop over time. In some cases, it is with the first exposure. The immune system builds antibodies to oppose the next encounter with the offending agent. With the next contact, white blood cells, known as mast cells, attack the allergen. A substance called histamine is released, and symptoms occur.
The skin disorders of allergic response is quite miserable to dogs. Rashes, redness, and bumps result in intense itching. In attempts to obtain relief, the animal scratches, causing abrasions. The skin breaks often become infected, causing more discomfort. This frequently results in hair loss at the site and surrounding area. The continual discomfort may cause hyperactive behaviours to be exhibited.
Atopic allergies occur most frequently. These are from inhalation of various substances. Molds, dust, pollen, smoke, air fresheners, and other airborne particles are causative agents. According to some veterinarians, a combination of airborne and skin contact sources are the cause of symptoms.
Contact dermatitis allergy is another type. The usual causes are grass, bushes, lawn treatments, fabrics, carpet fibers, or plastics. Perfumed shampoos, or any topical substance may be the culprit. Reddened, itchy bumps appear on the skin. Hair loss occurs as a result of intense scratching.
Dogs do not have flea allergies. But they are allergic to a protein in flea saliva. However, those that are accustomed to fleas seem to have some degree of resistance to it. Those that are not accustomed, once exposed to them may develop sensitivity quickly. The bite areas become inflamed and itchy. Hair loss usually occurs.
Food intolerance is not food allergy. Intolerance usually causes flatus, diarrhea, and vomiting. Allergies exhibit as signs of itching. Chewing the feet, and scratching any area of the body are usual manifestations. Scooting on the lawn or carpet may indicate anal itching. Foods which often cause allergies are beef, chicken, pork, fish, eggs, grains, and dairy products. Other foods may actually be toxic and result in serious illness or death. Chocolate, raisins, grapes, and onion are a few of these. For safety reasons, one should refrain from giving table foods to pets. Allergies can be due to dog food that the animal is used to eating. This is especially true with cheaper brands. Occasionally, even quality brands have caused allergic response.
Other conditions, such as sarcoptic mange, may mimic signs of allergy. It is caused by mites which burrow under the skin, causing itching and rash. Treatment must be with specific medication that kills the mites. Cool baths may temporarily relieve many skin discomforts. For effective treatment, accurate diagnosis by a veterinarian must be made.
About the Author:
Jennifer is a dog and cat health professional focusing on dog hot spots. She highly suggests all-natural solutions for dog hot spots.
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