On Monday, May 6th at 11am, catch Dr. Royal on WLS Channel 7 News where she will discuss springtime allergies and tips to help relieve your pet. Here is a complete list of Dr. Royal’s recommendations.
A) what are some common Springtime allergens?
Pollens, trees, molds, ticks, fleas, dust mites.
B) what can you do to help alleviate allergy symptoms?
Don’t overvaccinate. Many vaccines are given at annual exams in the springtime. These vaccines stimulate the immune system – just as springtime allergies are also stimulating the immune system. If we vaccinate with several vaccines at once, the overstimulation has a cumulative effect and we see the signs of allergies worsening – more itchiness, skin irritation and even more serious reactions.
Decrease exposure to allergens that you can control and don’t worry about the things you can’t (tree or plant pollens, grasses, etc)-
Avoid wheat, corn, peanut butter in foods and treats
Avoid fragrances/sprays/perfumes at home
Keep exposure to woolen surfaces limited (carpets, blankets)
Avoid plastic bowls, use metal, ceramic or glassStart with topical treatments where possible, don’t over medicate— use shampooing with simple oil-based soaps like Murphy’s Oil soap and then try medicating topically first, rather than using oral meds. Skin allergies respond very well to topicals, and you won’t be promoting resistant strains of bacteria the way you do with oral meds.
Avoid plastic bowls, use metal, ceramic or glassStart with topical treatments where possible, don’t over medicate— use shampooing with simple oil-based soaps like Murphy’s Oil soap and then try medicating topically first, rather than using oral meds. Skin allergies respond very well to topicals, and you won’t be promoting resistant strains of bacteria the way you do with oral meds.
Consider alternative treatments to starting on medication –
-Acupuncture, massage and chiropractic treatments can help regulate the immune system’s response to allergens.
-Acupuncture, massage and chiropractic treatments can help regulate the immune system’s response to allergens.
-Laser can help speed skin recovery and decrease inflammation locally.
How frequently should dogs get baths for allergies?
Usually not more than 1 x week, and typically monthly or even a few times a year, depending on the coat, and the breed and the activity (shows/contests, fish roll at the beach, mud play, skunks…!)
Food/Diet and how it can help (or hurt) dogs with allergies-
The GI tract is the border control for allergens that are ingested. Wheat and corn can cause the GI tract to be a lazy border control, allowing in allergens that it would not when healthy.