Dog Skin Allergies Types And Causes
More dogs are developing allergies today than ever before. Some estimates claim that as many as one of every seven canines display allergy symptoms. Further, dog skin allergies are the most common reason owners bring pets in to see a veterinarian. Heredity is thought to be a contributor to these problems. So is breed, as some kinds are more likely to have issues than others.
Allergies are negative reactions due to exposure to an inhalant, food, or environmental stimuli. The offending substance the dog is exposed to is referred to as an allergen. In response to this allergen the immune system of the animal initiates an allergic or hypersensitive reaction.
Dogs must be exposed to a substance at least two times before they form a complete reaction to it. The first time the immune system will begin antibody production. The next time around, a full-blown antibody directed reaction occurs in which histamine, a chemical mediator, is produced.
In humans, symptoms are normally experienced in the respiratory system. In dogs, skin complications occur instead. Frantic itching is one of the most telling signs of problems. In addition to scratching, dogs will also be short tempered and unpleasant, as they are suffering.
Hypersensitivities can be classified into two kinds. The first type happens minutes following exposure and normally presents itself as hives. In severe cases, immediate reactions can result in anaphylactic shock, vomiting, diarrhea, breathing difficulty, collapse, weakness, and death. The delayed response type happens hours to days later. The main indicator of this is an intense itching sensation.
There are four main reasons for canine allergies. First are fleas or any other insects that may bite. Second are inhaled forms of substances such as grasses, pollen, dust mites, and molds. Third is consuming specific drugs or foods. Last, irritation may result from physical contact with a substance.
Hives are a common problem in dogs. They occur with the immediate reaction type response and appear as raised circular areas. Hairs can start to stick out in patches. Eyelids also may start to swell. Hives can develop around a half hour after exposure and disappear by the same time the next day.
Their cause can be insect bites, vaccinations, antibiotics, and insecticides or soaps. If hives have a habit of reappearing they are probably the result of something in the environment. If problems are believed to originate from food, modifications to the diet are key. When they take place after shampooing, bathe the pet and find another product.
Fleas are the cause of both delayed and immediate responses. Itching occurs soon after being bitten and can endure for as long as fleas continue to exist. Flea control is a great solution to this problem and other pets in addition to the one effected must be treated. This lowers chances of recurring problems. Antihistamines can reduce itching and medicated baths and antibiotics are commonly prescribed cures.
Dog skin allergies are becoming increasingly problematic. They result from airborne substances, foods, or physical contact with offending substances. Symptoms can occur immediately or be delayed a few days after exposure. Flea bites cause both types of reactions.
Jennifer is a dog health expert who specializes in all natural pet skin products.
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