Handling Your Dog's Allergies

Filed in archive Pet Allergies on April 21, 2007

If your dog is constantly scratching, could it be that your pooch have allergies, too? Better have ti looked at by a vet before it gets worse with a secondary infection.

Dr. Duane A. Kimmey, a Detroit vet who keeps a column at DetNews recommend these tips for handling your dog's allergies:

1. Have your dog allergy tested (skin test) to determine all the possible causes of your pet's allergies.
2. For primary symptoms such as sores and itching: antibiotics, shampoos, antihistamines, antifungals, cyclosporine and steroids
3. For secondary (bacterial) infections: antibiotics such as cephalosporins, clindamycin and clavamox
4. Give your dog a general bath prior to the medicated bath; this cleanses the skin and allows the medication to work better.

Read Dr. Kimmey's column on dog allergies for more details.