One of the most frustrating and relapsing chronic conditions seen in small animal medicine is the presence of skin allergies. Inhalant and contact allergies to molds, grasses, trees, pollen, etc, as well as food and flea allergies lead to frequent itching and secondary bacterial and yeast infections of the skin and ears. This leads to increasing pet discomfort, as well as owner expense because of frequent veterinary visits. While antibiotics and […]
One of the more common reasons for veterinary exams (outside of wellness visits) involves some sort of skin or coat complaint. Many pets can develop excessive shedding, dull, dry, or greasy coats, as well as hair loss. Often times these complaints are accompanied by a history of excessive itching and secondary bacterial or yeast overgrowth on the skin. Allergies are the most common causes of these varied symptoms, which can usually can be […]
Inhalant and contact skin allergies are indeed frustrating for many pet owners. Symptoms of allergies may include chronic itchy feet, face and ears, as well as secondary infections leading to increased patient discomfort. In years past it was often only prescription Prednisone that offered these pets significant symptomatic relief. However, the use of long term Prednisone or cortisone can lead to unwanted side effects including: – Suppressing the immune system […]
Recently I was presented with a question of an itchy Wheaton Terrier who gets many hot spots from licking her tail along with flakey spots. She is already on a supposed low allergy diet and is on topical flea medication. The common reasons why such a pet is still often itchy, include other type of allergies known as inhalant/contact allergies to molds, grasses, trees, dander and pollens. Pets with these types […]
Environmental allergens (such as ragweed, pollens, grasses, trees, molds, etc) have long been suspected as being a major factor in flare-ups of canine seasonal allergic dermatitis (known as atopy). Multiple routes of exposure include ingestion and inhalation but most recently contact and skin exposure has been considered a major role in intensity of allergic symptoms. This highlights the important need for frequent application of topical therapy to remove the allergens and […]
Skin allergies are amongst the most frustrating health problems exhibited by both dogs and cats, and are likely the most common reason for veterinary visits outside of wellness exams. Pets present with various manifestations of self trauma from licking, biting or scratching at themselves. Commonly affected areas include the lower back, feet, ears, chest and abdomen. However, any area of the body can be affected. Many pets can develop secondary […]
During today’s difficult economic times, many vet clinics are receiving numerous phone calls each day from animal guardians looking for at-home suggestions for treating simple acute problems, as opposed to paying for costly veterinary exams and workups. In the earlier article about pet owner misconceptions, I reviewed some statistics and a few medical examples of how certain conditions can often resolve on their own, or with just supportive care at […]
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