Dog Allergies | Allergies in Dogs
Dog Allergies | Allergies in Dogs
Allergies in dogs are basically an immune system overreaction. The nasal cavity is an uncommon primary site for allergic disease in dogs and it has not been well characterized yet. However, dermatologists provide anecdotal reports of atopic dogs rubbing the face (possibly indicating nasal pruritus) and experiencing serous nasal discharge, in addition to dermatologic signs. Dog allergies are generally considered to be a hypersensitivity response within the nasal cavity and sinuses to airborn antigens. Other antigens are capable of inducing a hypersensitivity response as well, and thus the differential diagnoses must include parasites, other infectious diseases and neoplasia.
Dogs with allergies experience sneezing and/or serous mucopurulent nasal discharge. Signs may be acute or chronic. Careful questioning of the owner may reveal a relationship between signs and potential allergens. For instance, signs of dog allergies may be worse during certain seasons; in the presence of cigarette smoke; of after the introduction of a new brand of furniture or fabric in the house.
Dog allergies treatment
Removing the offending allergen from the dog's environment is the ideal treatment for dog allergies. When this is not possible, a beneficial response may be achieved with antihistamines. Chlorpheniramine can be administered orally. Glucocorticoids can be used if antihistamines are unsuccessful. If treatment is effective, the dog's allergy signs will generally resolve within a few days. Medication is continued only as long as needed to control the signs.
We would love to hear your pet's story. Please add a comment.
Allergies in dogs are basically an immune system overreaction. The nasal cavity is an uncommon primary site for allergic disease in dogs and it has not been well characterized yet. However, dermatologists provide anecdotal reports of atopic dogs rubbing the face (possibly indicating nasal pruritus) and experiencing serous nasal discharge, in addition to dermatologic signs. Dog allergies are generally considered to be a hypersensitivity response within the nasal cavity and sinuses to airborn antigens. Other antigens are capable of inducing a hypersensitivity response as well, and thus the differential diagnoses must include parasites, other infectious diseases and neoplasia.
Dogs with allergies experience sneezing and/or serous mucopurulent nasal discharge. Signs may be acute or chronic. Careful questioning of the owner may reveal a relationship between signs and potential allergens. For instance, signs of dog allergies may be worse during certain seasons; in the presence of cigarette smoke; of after the introduction of a new brand of furniture or fabric in the house.
Dog allergies treatment
Removing the offending allergen from the dog's environment is the ideal treatment for dog allergies. When this is not possible, a beneficial response may be achieved with antihistamines. Chlorpheniramine can be administered orally. Glucocorticoids can be used if antihistamines are unsuccessful. If treatment is effective, the dog's allergy signs will generally resolve within a few days. Medication is continued only as long as needed to control the signs.
We would love to hear your pet's story. Please add a comment.
MORE VETERINARY ARTICLES
-
The Boston Terrier is a cross between the Bulldog and the English Terrier, but it is distinctive in its own right. Its confirmation, which i...
-
History 1. Family history. 2. Exercise intolerance, syncopal episoded. 3. Pallor, jaundice. 4. Localized or generalized bleeding. 5. Feline ...
-
Small Dogs You shouldn't base your decision of which small dog breed to pick based solely on "looks," or you could end up with...
-
Enlargement of the liver | Hepatomegaly in dogs and cats Enlargement of the liver in dogs and cats may be the result of cardiac incompetenc...
-
The Rottweiler is one of the largest of the more highly respected guard dogs, the others being the Akita , the Doberman Pinscher , and the G...
-
1. Acetaminophen. 2. Antiarrythmics. 3. Anticonvulsants. 4. Antiinflammatories (nonsteroidal). 5. Barbiturates. 6. Benzocaine. 7. Chemothera...
-
The Afghan Hound is one of the most distinguished-looking breeds, which is no doubt the main reason people are attracted to it. The Afghan ...
-
The Alaskan Malamute is larger than either the Siberian Husky or the Samoyed, two other similar breed of sled dogs. As the largest breed of ...
-
If you must find a dog that is not active, excitable or aggressive, the Basset Hound could be ideal for you. Bassets have the reputation of ...
-
Dog Breeds - Groups The breeds of dogs are officially classified into 10 distinct groups, themselves divided into sections, created accord...