Dog Allergies / Med Choices

Choosing The Right Allergy Medicine for Your Dog

Your dog can suffer just as much as you do from allergies. One look at your dogs runny eyes, red ears and flaky skin can let you know there's a problem. It’s important to have a veterinarian examine your dog to rule out thyroid disease or other types of problems; but often allergens are the culprit.

Allergy medicine for your dog is available. There are to two major types: corticosteroids and antihistamines. A look at each of the types will give an overview of the benefits and drawbacks of these treatments. There also are other, non-medicinal ways to reduce your pet's allergy suffering.

Corticosteroids

Prednisone is one commonly used corticosteroid for dogs. This type of allergy medicine for your dog works well and fast. However, there are a number of side effects, some of which are mild but others that are potentially lethal. Corticosteroids can possibly suppress your dog's immune system. Short-term use of this allergy medicine for your dog is okay but long-term use should be avoided. Give these drugs in as low of a dose as possible.

Antihistamines

Antihistamines are a much safer allergy medicine for your dog than corticosteroids. But it may take a while to find the most effective type for your dog. Also, antihistamines will probably have to be administered to your dog several times a day. Giving pills to your dog is not fun, and doing it three times a day can become a real chore. Antihistamines can also make your dog drowsy and may not work for all dogs, and some experts say antihistamines only work in 20-30% of dogs.

Non-medicinal treatments

Supplementing the allergy medicine for your dog should you decide on non-medicinal treatment has shown benefits. Often, changing your dog's diet can help as your dog could have a food allergy but this is hard for veterinarians to diagnose. The best way to figure out what's irritating your dog is by process of elimination. Switching to a high-quality, all-natural dog food could be what is needed.

Bathing your dog frequently can also help supplement an allergy medicine for your dog. Use a shampoo with all-natural ingredients, like oatmeal and aloe vera. A bath can help soothe your dogs irritated skin and cut down on the amount of medicine your dog needs.

Helping your dog fight his allergies can improve his quality of life. Finding the right allergy medicine for your dog, whether it's antihistamines or corticosteroids, is important. The right medicine along with non-medicinal supplemental treatment can aid your dog tremendously.