How to Stop a Dog With an Allergy From Itching
Many dogs, particularly dalmatians, schnauzers, terriers, golden retrievers and poodles, suffer from skin allergies. Like humans, dogs can be allergic to any number of things in their environment including pollen, ragweed, insect bites, other pets, their food and even human dander. If your pet bites, chews or scratches at his skin excessively, he is likely to have an allergy. Thankfully, you and your vet can do to several things to relieve your pet's discomfort.
Instructions
-
-
1
Take your dog to the vet to get a blood test. The blood test results will indicate what your pet is allergic to so that you can avoid and treat these specific allergies.
-
2
Ask your vet about fatty acid supplements, cortisone shots, immunotherapy and over-the-counter antihistamines. These treatments are often effective in relieving itchy skin, but some come with side effects.
-
-
3
Keep your dog away from allergens as much as possible. For example, if your dog is allergic to a specific type of fabric, give her blankets, bedding and clothes made from a different material. If she's allergic to pollen, keep her indoors during dusk and dawn (the heaviest pollination times). If allergic to mold, limit her exposure to bathrooms and laundry room. If allergic to beef, give her a food with a different protein source, such as fish, or check with your vet about preparing custom-made meals.
-
4
Vacuum the house and wash your dog's bedding frequently to control dust, insects and other allergens.
-
5
Wash your dog and his paws frequently with an oatmeal shampoo or a medicated shampoo made to control fleas. Since allergies are often absorbed through the skin, keeping your pet's skin clean will prevent problems.
-
6
Mow your lawn frequently to control insects and pollen in the yard.
-
1
References
- Photo Credit dog image by Vasiliy Koval from Fotolia.com
