Allergy Medicine for Your Dog: Determining the Right One

Just like humans, dogs also suffer just as much from allergies and exhibit similarly uncomfortable syndromes. Close observation of your pet’s eyes and skin can alert you to possible problems, which necessitate a visit to the nearest animal clinic. Only with proper tests procedure can the causes of the discomfort be positively identified; quite often, allergens are the culprit but there is nothing better than to be sure that it is not something else, which can be more damaging and destructive to your pet.

There are a variety of allergy medicine for your dog and they belong to two major categories: corticosteroids and antihistamines. Knowledge and comprehension of each of the types gives an overview of their benefits and disadvantages, as there are also alternative, non-medicinal methods of treatment that can lessen your pet’s sensitivity reactions.

Corticosteroids

Corticosteroid allergy medicine for your dog works well and fast. The most common of this category is Prednisone but it has some side effects, which can be fatal as corticosteroids can prevent a dog’s normal immune system functions. This type of medication is recommended for one-time or short-term use only at the lowest possible dose.

Antihistamines

Antihistamines are safer allergy medicine for your dog compared to corticosteroids. Their drawback is in the length of their reaction time before taking effect. Use of antihistamines requires several administrations daily. Administering pills on a daily basis is not a dog or dog owner’s idea of fun, more so if you have to do it three times a day. In addition, antihistamines may elicit drowsiness or worse, not be effective at all, since antihistamines are only effective in 20 to 30% of dogs.

Non-medicinal treatments

The benefits gained if you complement standard allergy medicine for your dog with non-medicinal treatment is considerable. If your dog exhibits allergy symptoms, it may be a good idea to supplement the veterinarians prescription by changing your dog’s diet with a totally different food than the usual. Food allergy in dogs is difficult to evaluate and giving your dog high quality, all-natural dog food will never hurt and could only be beneficial.

Keeping your dog clean and bathing him regularly with dog soap and shampoo containing all-natural ingredients, like oatmeal and aloe vera, soothes a dogs skin and can reduce the quantity of medicine your dog requires.

Regardless of the type of allergy medicine for your dog, going the extra mile to fight your dogs sensitivity reactions will greatly improve his quality of life. Working hard and in cooperation with your veterinarian in finding the right medication and supplementing the treatment with non-medicinal methods can do wonders for your pet.