Dog Allergies

[Bayard]

Our two dogs, a Great Pyrenees and a Mini Dachshund, both have some kind of environmental allergy going on. The itching/scratching/chewing is driving us all crazy--especially them. The vet checked them over, no fleas (they're on preventatives). I cook for them....usually grilled or boiled chicken, and veges. Sometimes livers or gizzards, and throw a little oatmeal in, but no corn or wheat.

Since its both dogs, I can't imagine what it would be. The vet said give them benedryl. They've been on it for 2 weeks, and maybe a little temporary improvement. Going to try medicated shampoo. Allergy testing would be exorbitant, and we'd have to drive 80 miles to Louisville to get it done.

Who else has dealt with this, and what did you do that worked?

[shenmue]

1. Oh noes

I do not know the solution. Just hope your doggies are okay.

[zalinda]

2. I would check what was new in the house

there may be a chemical coating on something that they are reacting to. It could also be something in your yard, a new weed, flower or chemical to prevent weeds. Maybe the neighbors used something. Also, if it's possible check the ingredients of products that you have been using and see if the formula has changed.

Z

[alfie]

3. My dog seems to be allergic to cheese

I also switched her to a special dogfood from the vet that was for food allergies and sensitive skin. She still itched, and another vet suggested that cheese might be the problem. Don't know if that helps you or not.

[Duppers]

4. My girl has chiggers

Hubby has to spray yard and I have to bathe her every 6 or 7 days in addition to the nightly benedryl and medicated shampoo.

Could it also be chiggers on your babies? They're difficult to detect.

Good luck.



Ck your PMs.

[mopinko]

5. both my bullies are breaking out.

red blotches that lose hair. did claritin, like you, a little improvement but not much. tried a different dog food, too. same thing.

some relief by dusting the sores w gold bond. one has had allergy testing, and he has a bunch. since they are half brothers, presume the same.
gonna hit the vet this week.

[japple]

6. I start my dog on Claritin (Loratidine) 1/2 tablet (or half the standard

adult dosage) on March 1st and keep her on it until fall. Then her allergies seem to subside. My (human) allergist always said if you have spring allergies, it's tree pollen, in the summer it's grass allergies, and if in the fall, it's usually weeds. She is a Jack Russell Terrier mix and seems more sensitive to allergens than some other dogs.

Do you treat your property with herbicides or pesticides? Do your neighbors? What kind of cleaning products do you use in your household? Animals are very sensitive to chemicals and even stuff like scented laundry detergent or that Downy fabric softener (and dryer sheets) will really make some dogs go berserk.

I wish you luck in getting this sorted out. As one who has always suffered from allergies, I know your poor doggies are in misery. For your sake and theirs, I hope you find the solution.

[broiles]

8. Try apaquil.Works wonders on my Bichon.

[douglas9]

9. Antihistamine Therapy

Over-the-counter antihistamine medications can prove helpful in reducing your pet’s itchiness and associated behaviours (e.g., scratching, licking, biting and chewing). Some may reduce itchiness only partially, while others may prove completely effective.

Try each medication until you find one that is most effective for your pet. Use each medication for a minimum of 5 to 7 days before assuming that it is ineffective and before changing to a new drug. Always administer the lowest dose at the lowest frequency and increase the dosage only if required. Do not use antihistamine medications with combined drugs (such as pseudoephedrine).

Report any side effects to your veterinarian.


http://cedarviewanimalhospital.com/pet-health-resources/antihistamine-therapy/

[Sunlei]

10. If it was just the Great Pyr., I would think shedding & needs a brush out/bath.

With two scratching they both have the same problem, probably some type of insect it could be mites like chiggers from outside grass, very itchy. For people too

I live in Texas, land of bugs and humid weather. In the summer months I use a topical called 'Frontline Plus'. I bath my dogs and then apply the Frontline. I wash dog bedding before their baths. And lightly bug spray areas dogs lay around in the house.

This has worked well for me and my dogs.