Allergies Archives - Page 2 of 3 - Your Vet Wants You to Know

Bee and Wasp Desensitization

Bee and wasp allergies can be life threatening to pets. Animals who have had an anaphylactic reaction to a sting are at risk for worsening reactions with each future sting. In this episode, Dr. Trenton Ewing joins Dr. Lancellotti to discuss a life-saving therapy in which pets are desensitized to bee and wasp allergies. 85% of animals who have gone through this therapy will have a reduction in the severity of their reactions if they are stung in the future. This therapy saves lives.

Allergy mythbusters

Common myths about dog and cat allergies can lead well-intentioned pet owners astray when it comes to getting relief for their itchy pet. In this episode, veterinary dermatologist Dr. Nellie Choi joins Dr. Brittany Lancellotti to dispel some common misconceptions they hear regarding allergic skin and ear disease in pets including:
Why antihistamines are not very helpful
Why ear infections don’t just happen in floppy ear dogs
Why fleas are still important to prevent even if your pet is indoor only and you’ve never seen a flea
Why there isn’t such a thing as hypoallergenic dog breeds
Why allergy immunotherapy should be an early treatment option and not a last resort
Plus, don’t miss rapid-fire mythbusters at the end of the episode regarding blood tests for food allergies, grain free diets, and coconut oil!

Diet Trials

The only test to determine if a pet has allergies to food is an 8 week diet trial. No blood test has been shown to be accurate. If you’re curious about food allergies and want more information on how to successfully perform a diet trial, then check out this episode with Dr. Meagan Painter, board certified veterinary dermatologist, as she discusses her tips and tricks for setting pet owners up to get an A+ on this crucial diagnostic test for the treatment of allergic dogs and cats.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy with allergy shots or drops is the only therapy which can reverse underlying environmental allergies. If your allergic dog or allergic cat has received symptomatic medications like Apoquel, Cytopoint, steroids, Atopica or antibiotics, check out this week’s episode to learn all about allergy testing and desensitization for long term management of allergies to be able to reduce the need for other anti-itch and antibiotic medications.

Atopica

Atopica (cyclosporine) is a commonly used symptomatic treatment for allergic dermatitis in dogs and cats. Atopica works to decrease swollen paws and ears, as well as provide safer long term relief than steroids. Learn about the benefits and drawbacks to this therapy.

Steroids

Steroids are commonly used medications for a wide variety of diseases, including allergic skin disease. In this episode, Dr. Curtis Plowgian discusses the benefits and risks of steroids in the treatment of allergic cats and dogs.

Cytopoint

Cytopoint is a revolutionary new anti-itch therapy for symptomatic treatment of itch in dogs with allergies. This therapy provides an average of 4 weeks of itch relief and can be used in many dogs who cannot use other anti-itch treatments because of other medical conditions. Find out more about the benefits and drawbacks of this therapy.

Apoquel

Apoquel is a commonly used medication in the treatment of allergic itch in dogs. If you’re looking for more information about the benefits and risks of this medication, you’ve come to the right place. Listen now for evidence-based information about this allergy medication for itchy pets.

Golden retriever dog panting and lying on grass with tennis ball and trees in background

Environmental allergies

Environmental allergies are common among dogs and cats. Allergens can include weeds, grass, and tree pollens that can travel many miles. Animals may also be allergic to dust and storage mites, as well as humans and other animals. Environmental allergies are a chronic disease that requires good communication and teamwork with the veterinarian.

Food Allergies

Food allergies in pets can result in itching and overgrooming in many parts of the body, and most often are the result of a sensitivity to chicken, beef, fish, soy, egg or dairy. Find out more about how to work with your veterinarian to determine if your pet has a food allergy.

Category: Allergies