Allergies

[Roxy 87]

I'm thinking this may be what's going on with Tila. How do I go about finding out if it is allergies? She just had a wellness exam last week the vet said she's healthy, but she started nibbling at her tail which we got checked when we went. I haven't seen her nibbling her tail, but now she's nibbling her feet. If she had any kind of allergy would that make her nibble? I'm going to make an appointment tomorrow to take her in this week and talk to my vet.

[Ellie May]

Yes, allergies make them chew their skin.

Environmental allergies are confirmed by skin testing (some do bloodwork, but I've heard it's not as accurate). Ultimately, allergy shots usually should be attempted if this is the diagnosis. Atopica works very well for dogs, but it's healthier to go ahead and test then give the shots. Some dogs respond to anti-histamines (have to use them for at least 10 days to decide if they are having any effect). Steroids work very well, but they are used more for immediate relief. it's best to avoid long-term use. And allergy testing shouldn't be done until the steroids are out of the system.

Food allergies can be diagnosed by an elimination diet (at least 12 weeks with only one kind of food given - a novel protein and carb - sometimes only rx allergy diets work for this). Steroids do make food allergy pups more comfortable, but eliminating the problem ingredient(s) is definitely the way to go. Blood testing for food allergies seems to have gained a lot of ground; however, it is not accurate and is not a replacement for an elimination diet.

[Wylie's Mom]

Originally Posted by Ellie May

Yes, allergies make them chew their skin.

Environmental allergies are confirmed by skin testing (some do bloodwork, but I've heard it's not as accurate). Ultimately, allergy shots usually should be attempted if this is the diagnosis. Atopica works very well for dogs, but it's healthier to go ahead and test then give the shots. Some dogs respond to anti-histamines (have to use them for at least 10 days to decide if they are having any effect). Steroids work very well, but they are used more for immediate relief. it's best to avoid long-term use. And allergy testing shouldn't be done until the steroids are out of the system.

Food allergies can be diagnosed by an elimination diet (at least 12 weeks with only one kind of food given - a novel protein and carb - sometimes only rx allergy diets work for this). Steroids do make food allergy pups more comfortable, but eliminating the problem ingredient(s) is definitely the way to go. Blood testing for food allergies seems to have gained a lot of ground; however, it is not accurate and is not a replacement for an elimination diet.

Also, continue to ask yourself - when did it start, where is she itching, is there any red splotchy areas etc etc.

Sign up for pollen updates in your zip code at www.pollen.com - so you can see if itchies coincide w/ pollens. That said, keep in mind she could be allergic to dust, so pollens may not be the issue.

This is probably my favorite site for description of allergy issues: Pet Care Library: Allergies in Dogs

[Taryn0405]

Gizmo has allergies and was very itchy for a little bit. My husband and I ended up getting the duct work cleaned in the house, this helped him and us. Also, Gizmo had more sensative skin, and the holistic vet that I talked to recommended a few different foods to try him on. One of them my Carin is on (Innova Dry) and Giz always seems to make a bee-line for her food. It's not that Giz was allergic to any of the foods, but I was told that some help the skin and coat a little bit more.

I started feeding this to my Cairn via recommendation from her grommer/stripper who noticed he skin was red. I put her on Innova and her skin as improved.

So, Giz and Maizey are both on it and Giz is itching less.

I'm not a vet, but it seemed to work to Giz who itched and nibbled.

Good luck!