Signs your Pet has Allergies from Our Local Winston-Salem Veterinary Clinic
As your veterinarian Winston-Salem, we are here for all of your pet's health needs. Pet allergies can make your dog or cat uncomfortable. Learn how you can recognize symptoms of allergies in your pets and how we can help.
Environmental and Food Allergy Symptoms in Dogs
Whether your dog has a food allergy or an environmental allergy, the symptoms tend to look the same. Skin and ear infections are common, as are itching, hair loss, and hot spots. Some pets have GI symptoms, namely vomiting or diarrhea.
Since conditions like fungal infections look similar to food allergy symptoms in dogs, a veterinary clinic will want to rule out other conditions before confirming allergies.
Environmental allergies include pollen, grass, dust, and dust mites. If these symptoms come and go with the seasons, it could be environmental allergies. Lesions on the feet also suggest environmental rather than food allergies. In terms of food, the top allergens are corn, soy, and wheat. Dogs may be allergic to one particular type of meat, for instance, beef.
How Our Animal Hospital Treats Allergies in Dogs
Once our veterinarian Winston-Salem confirms a diagnosis of environmental or food allergies, we will develop a treatment plan. For food allergies, switching to a food that does not contain the allergen will stop symptoms. We can also use medicated skin creams or recommend anti-inflammatory supplements to help your pet's symptoms subside.
Antihistamines and steroids can relieve your pet's uncomfortable itching. In situations where your dog has skin infections due to itching and scratching, our animal hospital can prescribe an antibiotic that will speed recovery.
To maintain your pet's health going forward, we can discuss ways you may be able to control your pet's environment. By bathing your dog, you can remove allergens on the skin. Fish oil supplements increase the oil barrier on your dog's coat, which makes it difficult for allergens to penetrate. Dogs with grass allergies may find relief by wearing booties, or you may opt to keep your dog off the grass.
Contact Our Local Winston-Salem Veterinarian for More Information Today!
If you think your dog or cat has allergies, our vets Winston-Salem can check things out and treat your pet. Reserve an appointment by contacting us at 336-765-1225 or sign up online. If it's your first appointment at our veterinary clinic, you can save $10 off your appointment.