My allergies have cost mama a lot of anxiety and money. Luckily, I am doing much better now, and she has gotten more experienced in managing my problems. If your pup is suffering from allergies too, here are some tips that may be helpful to you:
1. Go for an allergy test
To begin managing your pup’s allergies, you must first try to find out what it may be allergic to. That can be done either through a test or by your own trial and error. Different clinics would recommend different tests. Mama chose the non-invasive option – the bioresonance allergy test.
2. Maintain a strict diet
Maintaining a strict diet is the key to keeping food allergies at bay. This means cutting out most treats, especially commercial ones that contain so many different ingredients! Mama only feeds me my regular meals, and uses papaya and carrot as treats. It doesn’t make a difference to me though, as long as I get to eat!
3. Skip dairy products
Dairy products, including lactose-free milk, are a common trigger for allergies. Furkids who are even a tad bit sensitive should steer clear of them.
4. Avoid grass and use doggie shoes
Your pup’s allergies can be caused by anything. Just a small or short exposure can get it scratching and licking all over. Atopic dermatitis is a common skin condition which I suffer from due to contact with grass and dirt. It caused the parts between my toes and paw pads to turn red and itchy. Try to avoid letting your furkid go on the grass, but if that’s not possible, consider doggies shoes! The shoes will also protect our paws from sharp objects and hot surfaces.
5. Wash and dry paws thoroughly
Always wash your dog’s paws after a trip outside to get rid of dirt and other possible allergens. You have to dry them thoroughly too because bacteria loves moisture! While you are at it, check for fleas and ticks that your pup may have picked up outside.
6. Apply anti-flea and tick treatment consistently
Protect your dog from fleas and ticks by using natural remedies, such as essential oils. This is especially important if you bring your dog out to dog parks or other places with fellow furkids.
7. Keep your house clean and beware of commercial detergents
Clean your house, especially your pup’s sleeping area regularly to get rid of dust and parasites. Also, some dogs may be allergic to household detergents due to the chemicals in them. If possible, use natural cleaners instead.
8. Stay away from stress
Stress can also lead to allergic reactions, such as bumps and pimples on the body. It affects our immune system, making us vulnerable to illnesses and allergies. While it may seem unusual for pampered dogs like me to be stressed, it can happen when I go to new places or when I meet new friends. Always be alert when you introduce your pup to a new environment to make sure it doesn’t get overly-stressed.
9. Do not over-rely on steroids
Some vets may prescribe steroids to control our allergies. A small dose is acceptable but it shouldn’t be a long-term solution. Some dogs have suffered miserably under steroid treatment, as their organs started to fail due to its side effects. The best thing you can do for your dog is prevention, not medication!
10. Feed a raw diet?
Some furparents believe that a raw diet helps to eliminate allergies in their dogs. Mama hasn’t tried that yet, but if it has worked for you, please share your experience with us! [Update: Latte is now on a raw diet. Read about it here and here]
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