Inhalant Allergies
Allergic inhalant dermatitis (atopy, hay fever), similar to hayfever in humans, represents one of the most common problems presented to veterinarians. Most affected animals reacted to a variety of inhaled substances, such as tree, grass and weed pollens, molds, house dust, house dust mites, feathers and dander. Because the reaction to inhaled substances happens so quickly (within minutes) inhalant allergies are often referred to as immediate hypersensitivity reactions.

Clinical Signs (Symptoms)
Symptoms of the allergic pet may be seasonal or year-round, depending on the actual cause, making the pet lick, chew and scratch and have decreased resistance to infection. The most common sign is licking or chewing at the feet, which may stain the haircoat with a reddish tint. Other itchy areas include the flanks, groin and armpits. Many animals rub their face, or other area of the body, on the carpet, furniture or other convenient surfaces. The flaps of the ears may also may become reddened and hot with the inflammatory process. Allergies are one of the most common causes for chronic ear infections, bacterial infections (“hot spots”), bumpy scabs, and other chronic health problems.

Pets can begin to show signs of allergies between 6 months and 3 years of age, but pets of any age can develop allergies. Breeds with a particularly high incidence of allergies include terriers (especially West Highland white terrier, Skye terrier, Scottish terrier and Boston terrier), golden retrievers, poodles, dalmatians, German Shepherds, Chinese Sharpeis, shih tzus, Lhasa apsos, pugs, Irish setters and miniature schnauzers. Any animal, however, purebreed or mutt, may be affected by inhalant allergies.

Diagnosis
Many pet owners become familiarized with allergy symptoms rather quickly when the pet begins to suffer health complications from allergies. It is always recommended that you contact a veterinarian even if you think the allergic reaction is mild. In some cases it is possible to use home remedies, such as antihistamines, after the condition has been diagnosed and managed, but more often it is necessary to get help from a veterinarian to control the symptoms and get the problem resolved.

Management of Symptoms
Immunotherapy (allergy shots) is formulated on the basis of intradermal allergy tests by an experienced dermatologist and/or allergist. Blood tests are a less suitable but available alternative. When allergy testing is not a feasible option for the patient, symptomatic treatment is the next best alternative. Corticosteroids and Antihistamines are amongst the tools in the management of many allergic and dermatologic conditions, and more recently Omega 3 and Omega 6 Fatty Acids have gained notoriety in fighting allergy symptoms. Omega’s are natural anti-inflammatory agents which have proven useful in treating inhalant allergies, as they block some of the inflammation that causes itchiness in allergic dogs and cats, and have little or no side-effects.

Flea-Bite Allergies
Flea allergies are a year-round problem in some areas of the country, especially in the south where winters are generally mild and do not interrupt the flea life cycle. Signs of flea allergy usually include excessive hair loss, severe scratching and biting, skin sores on the neck, base of the tail and abdomen, skin infections, and may result in serious skin damage from the trauma of repeated biting/chewing/licking of the affected area(s). In highly allergic pets, a single flea bite can have effects lasting for weeks.

Management of Symptoms
Flea control for the pet and the environment is necessary to keep outbreaks and symptoms at a minimum. Flea allergies tend to worsen with age, and contribute to other health problems. In severe cases, Corticosteroids, Antihistamines, and Antibiotics may be added to the treatment protocols.

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