An allergy occurs when your pet’s immune system is hypersensitive to particular substances known as allergens. These may include foods, plants, pollen, mold, parasites, or environmental factors. Repeated exposure to specific allergens can sensitize your fluffy family member’s immune system, causing it to overreact in subsequent exposures. Allergies can have a significant impact on your pet’s health and well-being.

Signs and symptoms of allergies in dogs and cats can vary in their severity, depending on the type of allergies and your pet’s individual response. The most common warning signs may include the following:

* Red, raw, inflamed skin
* Itching, licking, scratching, and/or chewing
* Sores
* Skin infections
* Dandruff
* Small raised bumps on the skin
* Missing patches of fur
* Sneezing
* Runny eyes
* Difficulty breathing
* Vomiting
* Diarrhea
Even though these symptoms may not always indicate allergies, it’s essential to have your furry companion evaluated to rule out any underlying concerns.

Your pet’s care at Weldrick Animal Hospital is an exclusive, fully tailored experience that can vary based on your cat or dog’s needs. In general, the following is a look at what you may expect:

* Supplements: Dietary supplements can be beneficial for pets with allergies. Fatty acid supplementation, for example, can help reduce inflammation and itching. Dr. Josh will recommend the ideal supplements for your furry companion.

* Medications: Your four-legged family member may require medication to keep allergies under control. These may include antihistamines, anti-inflammatory drugs, or allergy shots. Dr. Josh will recommend the ideal treatment protocols based on your pet’s unique needs.

* Environmental Management: Just like in human allergy management, reducing allergens in your pet’s environment can be highly effective in providing the needed relief. Regular cleaning, using air purifiers, and minimizing exposure to allergens like pollen and dust mites can make a significant difference to your pet’s health.

* Parasite Control: It is important to keep your pet free from parasites like fleas or ticks to prevent allergies and other serious diseases they can transmit. Dr. Josh is happy to recommend the best and safest parasite prevention measures for your fur-ever friend.

* Bathing: Bathing with hypoallergenic shampoos can help remove allergens from their fur. We are happy to recommend the best products and ideal bathing schedules for your pet’s specific needs.

* Nutritional Therapy: We offer food allergy trials to diagnose food allergies. We are happy to recommend high-quality, prescription diets that do not contain common pet allergens to support your furry friend’s health.

At Weldrick Animal Hospital, we believe in a proactive approach to managing allergies. Remember – a comfortable and allergy-managed pet is a happy pet, and a happy pet makes for a happy parent! Dr. Dariy and our entire team are here to support you and your furry friend every step of the way!
We invite you to call us at 905-237-7387 or request an appointment online today!