Pet Allergy Treatment
Pets can get allergies the same way humans can, and they can be allergic to the same things we are allergic to. At Magnolia Animal Hospital in Ocala, we can help your pet with allergies regardless of their origin. Often allergies show up as skin problems with pets, but they can get hay fever and have food allergies as well. Pets cannot tell us their exact symptoms, but through observations and lab tests, your vet can narrow down the allergy and find a good treatment.
Allergy symptoms
There are some common symptoms dogs have when they are being bothered by allergies. These symptoms can also be a sign of something else, so if they get too extreme it is good to take your pet to an Ocala vet. If your dog shakes his head a lot, or scratches his ears excessively, it could be because of an allergy. If you pet scratches or licks to the point of making a raw spot, the animal could have an allergy to grass or other plants. Sneezing is another sign, just as it is with humans. In extreme cases, vomiting, hives, and diarrhea can also be caused by allergies.
Ask your vet
Your veterinarian may first try to rule out other health issues with an examination. There are tests that can be done to determine whether there is an allergy, and what the pet is allergic to. Testing is not an exact science however, and sometimes it is a matter of trying different things to find the real cause of the allergy. Food allergies are especially tricky, and a process of elimination with the diet may be used to determine what is causing the problem.
Treatment
Once your Ocala vet at the Magnolia Animal Hospital determines what the allergy is, treatment can begin. The best treatment is to keep the pet away from what is causing the allergy. This may not always be possible, but most of the time you can with food allergies. Many pets are allergic to fleas, and the best treatment is medication to keep fleas and ticks away from the pet. Changing your pet's environment, and perhaps some habits may be the best way to give them relief from allergies.
Call Magnolia Animal Hospital Today!
Call Magnolia Animal Hospital in Ocala today to get an appointment with our vet for your dog or cat. I the allergy is serious you may need emergency treatment, and we can help there as well. Most allergies are not emergencies, and our vet staff can examine your pet and determine what the best treatment options are. We welcome new patients as well as our regular customers when your pet has allergies or any other health issues.