Explore the path to relief for your furry companion with our comprehensive guide to antihistamines for dogs and dog allergy medication. Learn how to identify and manage allergies, alleviate discomfort, and ensure your pet's well-being. Unlock the secrets to a happier, healthier pet with our expert insights and tips.
Treatment Options for Allergic Dermatitis
Allergic dermatitis refers to inflammation of the skin due to an allergic reaction. Allergies in dogs can be triggered by various allergens including pollen (from grasses, plants and trees), dust mites, proteins in certain foods, fleas and contact with various grasses and plants.
Symptoms of allergic dermatitis in dogs often manifest as excessive itching/biting/licking, redness, a rash, hair loss and sometimes skin infections due to the excessive scratching and licking breaking down the skin barrier allowing bacteria or yeast into the skin.
Treating dogs with Allergic dermatitis can be frustrating as ongoing flare ups are common when the animal comes in contact with the allergen.
Treatment Options for Allergic Dermatitis in Dogs:
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Avoidance of Allergens: Identifying and avoiding the allergen whenever possible is the first line of defense.
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Bathing: Regular bathing with medicated or soothing dog shampoos removes allergens and bacteria from the skin, which will help soothe the skin and alleviate symptoms. Applying a moisturizer afterward will help improve the skin barrier, thereby reducing the opportunity for allergens and bacteria to re-enter. Wipes can also be used to remove the allergens and bacteria from the skin.
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Supplements: Supplements can play a significant role in managing allergic dermatitis by improving skin health, reducing inflammation, and supporting the immune system. Key ingredients to look for in supplements that target allergic dermatitis include Omega-3 fatty acids, prebiotics, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory agents.
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ZamiPet Allergy & Itch Dog Supplement: ZamiPet’s Allergy & Itch Dog Supplement is specially formulated to target skin-specific conditions, including those resulting in itching, scratching, and licking caused by atopic dermatitis, and allergens such as pollen, plants, grasses, dust mites, and food.
Key Ingredients:
- Australian sourced salmon: A rich source of Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA & DHA) which are known to reduce inflammation and improve skin health.
- Brewers Yeast: Contains B vitamins and other nutrients that support skin and coat health.
- Omega-3 (EPA & DHA): Essential fatty acids that help reduce inflammation and improve overall skin condition.
- Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM): An organic sulfur compound with anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce itching and discomfort.
- Inulin (Prebiotic): Supports gut health, which is linked to better immune function and reduced allergic reactions.
- Manuka Honey: Known for its antimicrobial and healing properties, it helps soothe irritated skin.
- Vitamin E: An antioxidant that helps protect skin cells from damage.
- Zinc: Supports skin health and the immune system.
- Turmeric: Contains curcumin, which has strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Selenium: An essential mineral that supports immune function.
- Biotin: A B-vitamin that promotes healthy skin and coat.
Special Offer: Bundle and Save 20% - Allergy & Itch Dog Supplement Double Pack
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Dog allergy medication (seek veterinary advice before providing to your dog):
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Antihistamines for dogs: Antihistamines are commonly used to relieve itching and other allergic symptoms in dogs. It is important you speak with your vet about the correct dosing for your dog. Some common antihistamines for dogs include:
- Zyrtec (Cetirizine): A popular & safe antihistamine that can be effective in reducing itching and inflammation in dogs.
- Claratyne (Loratadine): Similar to cetirizine, loratadine can help relieve itching and allergic symptoms in dogs.
- Telfast (Fexofenadine): While less commonly used in veterinary medicine, fexofenadine can also be prescribed for dogs with allergies. This shouldn’t be taken by dogs that are on antifungal treatment or on certain types of antibiotics.
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Prescription Medications: In more severe cases, veterinarians may prescribe:
- Corticosteroids - work well to reduce the itching and inflammation however they do have short term (increased drinking, eating & urinating) and long-term side effects. Topical creams containing corticosteroids with or without a local anesthetic ingredient often work well to reduce the initial skin inflammation and have fewer side effects than tablets.
- Apoquel tablets – daily tablets that work quickly to reduce itching and have very few side effects, but they are expensive.
- Cytopoint injection – reduces the itchiness with very few possible side effects. Usually required every 4-8 weeks.
- Immunosuppressive medications (e.g., Atopica) help pets with overactive immune systems however they are expensive and have potential side effects.
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Antihistamines for dogs: Antihistamines are commonly used to relieve itching and other allergic symptoms in dogs. It is important you speak with your vet about the correct dosing for your dog. Some common antihistamines for dogs include:
- Allergen Immunotherapy (desensitization): Involves allergy testing to see what your dog is allergic to. Then an individual formulation containing those allergens is made up and given to your dog by injection – starting with tiny doses and progressively increasing the dose over time. These injections aim to desensitize the immune system to the allergen(s).
Allergic dermatitis can significantly impact the quality of life of affected dogs, causing discomfort, irritation, and even secondary infections. However, with proper identification of allergens and appropriate treatment, many dogs can experience relief from their symptoms and lead happy, itch-free lives. If your dog is exhibiting signs of allergic dermatitis, it's essential to consult with a veterinarian to determine the underlying cause and develop a tailored treatment plan for your furry friend.
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