It is always important for dog owners to recognize dog allergy symptoms early enough. Being allergic means a human or animal suffers a hypersensitive response to certain allergens. Allergens are substances that are usually harmless. When the dog gets exposed to certain substances, the immune system triggers an antibody response. Severity of the response ranges from mild to fatal.
Just like humans, dog allergies can be due to certain inhalations, injections, skin contact, ingestion or absorption. Dogs may sneeze or exhibit watery eyes whenever exposed to certain chemicals or environments. Skin conditions are generally the most serious dog allergy symptoms. There are different hyperactive signs which may occur. A dog that is constantly scratching, biting or licking itself is an indicator of contact with certain allergens.
Immune responses may result to hair loss. Apart from that, hair loss may be as a result of constant scratching. Animal experts believe that intense scratching may be as a result of inhalation of different airborne particles such as smoke, dust, molds, pollen or air fresheners. Other signs that are usually noted include rubbing the face against a wall, chewing of feet or teary eyes. In some cases, ear infections can be observed.
Another type of dog allergy is contact dermatitis. It is usually caused by grass, lawn treatments, bushes, plastics or carpet fibers. Perfumed shampoos can cause different allergic reactions to dogs. Shampoos may lead to reddened bumps on the face. It is important to note that dogs are not allergic to fleas. They are however allergic to flea saliva. This saliva has certain proteins which may cause certain reactions when it gets in contact with the dog. Dogs that are used to fleas may develop resistance to flea related allergies.
Dog owners should avoid sharing their foods with dogs. It’s a fact that most foods humans consume are toxic to dogs. Individuals should avoid giving chocolate, grapes, onions or raisins to dogs because these substances may cause severe reactions which may result to the death of the dogs. It is important for owners to buy their dogs specific and quality dog meals.
Dog allergy symptoms are easy to notice. People who have lived with their pets for periods of time can easily notice when these pets do not behave normally. Dog owners should be able to know what substances cause allergies to the dogs so that they may help prevent their dogs from getting in contact with them.
It is always important to get assistance from a dog expert whenever dog allergy symptoms persist. It is also important to feed dogs properly and keep them in a clean environment so as to prevent different types of allergic responses. Individuals should not forget that prevention is better than cure.