April Showers Bring... Allergies? Don't Let Your Pet Suffer!
Spring is in the air! The flowers are blooming, the birds are chirping, and unfortunately for many of our furry friends, the allergies are kicking in here in Tucson, AZ! While you may notice your own runny eyes and sneezing, dogs and cats skin are where their allergy symptoms manifest.
Here at Orange Grove Animal Hospital, we see a significant surge in skin and allergy-related cases during the month of April. In fact, a staggering 60% or more of our April appointments are focused on itchy, uncomfortable pets.
We know it's heartbreaking to watch your beloved companion struggle with allergies. That's why we want to equip you with the knowledge to recognize the signs and understand the treatment options available.
What to Look For:
Ear Infections: This is a big one! Frequent ear scratching, head shaking, and a foul odor emanating from the ears are all telltale signs. Allergies can disrupt the natural balance of the ear canal, making it a breeding ground for bacteria and yeast.
Paw Licking and Chewing: If your dog is constantly licking or chewing at their paws, it's a huge red flag. This behavior is often a direct response to the intense itching associated with allergies.
Excessive Hair Loss and Hot Spots: Keep an eye out for bald patches, especially around the eyes, and inflamed, irritated "hot spots." These are areas where your pet has been excessively scratching or licking, leading to skin damage and possibly infection!
The Good News: We Can Help!
We understand that every pet is unique. That's why we create a tailored treatment plan for each and every dog and cat we see, taking into consideration their individual needs and your lifestyle.
Treatment Options:
Injections: For some pets, allergy injections can provide long-lasting relief. These injections work by blocking ‘the itch pathway’ to specific allergens. We frequently use Cytopoint* to help manage itchy skin associated with allergies, infection, and even some parasitic skin diseases.
Daily Medications: We offer various oral medications, including Apoquel* and immune suppressants, to help manage allergy symptoms. These medications can provide rapid relief from itching and inflammation.
Dietary Changes: In some cases, food allergies can contribute to skin issues. We can help you identify potential food allergens and recommend a suitable diet to alleviate symptoms.
Supplements: Certain supplements, particularly those rich in fatty acids, can help strengthen the skin barrier and reduce inflammation.
Don't let your pet suffer through another allergy season! The Sonoran Desert has its own set of unique allergies that our staff is intimately aware of if you’re a newcomer to the Tucson, AZ area as well. If you're noticing any of the signs mentioned above, please schedule an appointment with us today. We're here to help your furry friend feel their best!
Call (520-877-2626) or email us (orangegroveah@gmail.com) to help. We look forward to helping you and your pet enjoy a happy, itch-free spring!
*always seek a veterinarian first to ensure proper medication dosages!
