If you suffer from any kind of allergy then you know how your dog feels when he is allergic to something. Just miserable, right? You know what you can take to relieve these symptoms, but what is actually safe to give your dog? Well, it really depends on what type of allergic symptoms he is having. If it is a skin related problem and he is scratching constantly you can treat the outside with sprays, creams, gels or medicated powders, but this is only alleviating the symptoms temporarily. You also have to give him something that can treat the allergy from the inside-out.
Histamine blockers can be bought over the counter that work as well for your dog as they do for you. Make sure you check with your vet for proper dosages because it is going to depend on the size of the dog. You don’t want to give a small dog the same dose as you would give a huge one! All these medications depend on the weight of the animal. Sometimes small dogs benefit greatly from the use of these medications that are formulated for human babies, so you know it won’t hurt them, and they are available in liquid form as well as pills. Administering is easy-just use a dropper. Keep in mind that if you are going to use any histamine blocker it is best to consult with your vet first because what works for one dog may not work for another, and you may have to try several before hitting on the right one.
Steroids are often used when nothing else seems to work, and they can bring huge relief to the dog who has allergies. Because of potential long-term side effects they are used with care and the lowest dose possible is recommended. This medication is extremely effective in alleviating allergy symptoms but should only be used as a last resort. This is something you will have to discuss with your vet who will be able to prescribe the medication and monitor the results. Steroid use is extremely helpful if used properly. It is available in a pill form, or a quick acting injectable for severe cases and can be administered by your vet. A continuation of pills at home may be necessary for a period of time.
There are tons of treatments you can use that are probably already in your home. Apple cider vinegar is something many people swear by for treating allergies in dogs. Just a teaspoon in his water helps fend off potential allergens and is actually good for him. (This is, of course if you decide to try natural methods for treating your dogs’ allergies.) There are also products you can try that contain pro-biotics that are very good for your dog and help strengthen his immune system and aid in fighting off known allergy triggers. Omega 3 fatty acids seem to help reduce the number of histamines that are released that cause the allergies, but again, not every dog will have the same relief as another one. It will take several weeks to notice any improvement however. Your best option is to schedule a visit with your vet, let him examine the dog and then discuss how he would like to treat the allergy problem.
