Animal Chat

What’s the right thing to do? If you find a wallet the answer is easy, you return it. If you’re having dinner with friends, you don’t mention politics or religion (if you want to see them again). If your dog is constantly scratching or chewing, figuring out the right thing to do can be a little tougher.

If your veterinarian suggests that allergies might be the culprit many owners just throw up their hands and want to give up right then. Allergies can be difficult to manage in people and can be just as pesky in animals. There are seasonal allergies and non seasonal allergies, flea allergies and food allergies. It just seems so complicated to figure out the right thing to do.

What is the right thing to do? Steroids? Other pharmaceuticals? Allergy testing? A constantly scratching dog is hard on both the dog and the owner. A horse rubbing out all the hair on it's mane and tail is also hard to see. So a choice of the above options needs to be considered.

Rather than using drugs to control the symptoms it may be easier in the long run to discover the underlying problem. To do this allergy testing may be the best answer.

Allergy testing has come a long way in the last twenty years. Now, a blood sample from a dog, a cat or a horse can be analyzed. The testing can accurately identify offending allergens and point the way to an immunotherapy treatment, which is highly effective and safe for long term use.

Many people believe that the end result of allergy testing is giving the animal shots for the rest of its life. Again, there is now a new and easier method of allergy treatment.

Instead of shots, drops can now be given under the tongue. This is much easier for both the pet and the owner. Most animals show positive improvement within three to six months of treatment. Often this improvement can make steroid shots unnecessary and that is better for the overall health of your pet.

Pets and the people who live with them love a life without scratching. So if your pet is itchy give a thought to allergies. Talk to your veterinarian about allergy testing and treatment. The right thing to do for allergies may be easier than you think.