Supplement Solutions
Consider giving your pup omega-3 fatty acids, which have been known to reduce inflammation and help keep mild symptoms under control. Vitamin D is a new treatment; some vets believe it reduces the chance of skin infections from scratching. Because proper dosing of any supplement depends on your dog's size, talk to your vet before starting a regimen.
(Remember that your dog may have adverse reactions to some medications–avoid these 10 Pills That Poison Your Pet.)
Preferred Prescription
One of the best-studied treatments for pet allergies, Atopica (the active ingredient is cyclosporine) delivers medication targeted specifically to cells that play a large role in inflammation. Very effective in up to 70% of dogs, this drug is usually recommended if your pet suffers year-round (rather than seasonally), and it's safe for long-term use, unlike steroids. The biggest drawbacks?
RELATED: Innovative Solutions For Your Pet's Allergies
A prescription can be expensive (a 30-day supply costs approximately $100), and around 10% of dogs initially experience side effects such as vomiting, though these often lessen with time.
Image via Facebook
Simpler Shots
For a trigger-specific treatment, customized allergy shots may be the answer. If you opt for this route, be prepared to give Fido daily injections. This sounds scary, but it's usually accepted calmly by your dog, especially once he comes to expect it. The first step used to be identifying triggers with a time-consuming test performed by your vet, but this may no longer be necessary. Some pet doctors now offer "regionally specific" shots, which include the most common allergens in a geographic area, so your dog's dose doesn't have to be tailored, making the process faster and easier. Here's advice on how to pick the best vet for your pet.
Image via Thinkstock
When Food Is The Foe
Only 5 to 10% of dogs unlucky enough to be allergic are reacting to food, with proteins like beef, chicken, and soy topping the list of triggers. Symptoms mimic those of environmental allergies, but additional problems such as vomiting and diarrhea sometimes arise too.
RELATED: The Secret To A Healthy Pet Diet
If you suspect that kibble may be the culprit, talk with your vet, who can help you and Spot systematically eliminate trouble foods until you've found a diet that will leave you both happy.
–Leslie Jay
Image via Thinkstock
