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What is Skin Allergies?

Symptoms

  • Rashes
  • Excessive barking
  • Irritability
  • Diarrhea
  • Vomiting
  • Shakiness
  • Difficulty Breathing
  • Sudden Collapse
  • Bite marks and bumps

  • It’s common for a dog to suffer from some sort of allergic reaction as one in seven dogs currently suffers from an allergy. Allergies are cited as one of the most common causes for pet parents to take their dog to the veterinarian.
  • Skin allergies can occur both indoors and outdoors and usually aren’t diagnosed until the allergen has come into contact with your dog multiple times.
  • There are four main types of skin allergies in dogs: Allergies caused by food and drugs, bite marks from fleas with infectious diseases, inhalants, and irritants that grasp to the dogs coat.
  • While humans initially have symptoms relating to the upper respiratory system when suffering from an allergy, dogs will likely first show signs of allergies through blemishes and abrasions of the skin.

  • Dogs often need to be exposed to an allergen multiple times before exhibiting symptoms. As a result, identifying the allergy may be difficult.
  • Swelling can occur in the eyelids, extremities, and neck. The swelling could also be a symptom of hives and should be checked by your vet immediately.
  • It is possible for skin allergies in dogs to occur after a vaccination so make sure that vaccinations are properly documented. Consult with your veterinarian immediately.

  • In some cases, treating skin allergies in dogs is a matter of reducing access to inhalants or irritants that could damage your dog's skin. Once it has been confirmed your dog has skin allergies isolating potential culprits one by one and finding the allergen is the first step in preventing future outbreaks.
  • For skin allergies, minimizing contact with the allergen is another option. A diagnosed skin allergy can quickly grow into a chronic skin condition which could lead to hair-loss or bumps and bruises in the skin. Until the flare dies down and the dog's skin allergy diminishes it is best to keep the dog in a safe, controlled environment.
  • Medication may be recommended for dogs with skin allergies. There are both prescription and over-the-counter solutions depending on the severity of the allergy.

  • Initially, expect your dog self-medicate by biting and scratching at the skin. Dogs who are treated successfully for skin allergies will reduce attempts to scratch and itch areas infected.
  • Skin allergies can be quite painful and dogs may need time to recover from painful sores, hives, and abrasions. Movement and behavior may be impacted by the discomfort and/or pain.

a PetPlus Member's story

I appreciate the PetPlus program 100% Silky uses immunosuppressive drugs and cortisone to treat her allergies image description SAVED $372 last year Julie + Silky Orlando, FL Read More
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How PetPlus Can Help You

 
Diet save $137

Top Prescription Foods for Skin Allergies

Help for dogs with food allergies and adverse food reactions.

 
Medication save $519

Top Prescription Medications for Skin Allergies

Treat atopic dermatitis that can cause hair loss, heavy scratching and licking.

 
Supplements save $190

Top Vitamins and Supplements for Skin Allergies

Omega 3 fish oil supports skin & coat health associated with skin allergies.

 
Treatment save $50

Professional Treatment for Skin Allergies

Save 25% at over 4,000 veterinarians nationwide through Pet Assure. Simply show your PetPlus card at any participating vet to receive savings on office visits & exams, vaccines & shots, elective procedures (e.g., dental care), surgery (e.g., spaying & neutering, emergency surgery) and hospitalization (in Network).

Retail Annual Cost $200
Savings $150

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Popular Products
Popular Products

Top Prescription Foods for Skin Allergies

Help for dogs with food allergies and adverse food reactions.
Product Member / Retail Cost Savings
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Hill's Prescription Diet z/d Skin/Food Sensitivities Dry Dog Food

$34/ $40

SAVE 14%

Top Prescription Medications for Skin Allergies

Treat atopic dermatitis that can cause hair loss, heavy scratching and licking.
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Cyclosporine (Modified)

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Atopica (Cyclosporine)

$18/ $42

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Hydroxyzine

$0/ $0

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Top Vitamins and Supplements for Skin Allergies

Omega 3 fish oil supports skin & coat health associated with skin allergies.
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Nordic Naturals Omega-3 Fish Oil Soft Gels

$16/ $25

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Nordic Naturals Pet Cod Liver Oil

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Professional Treatment for Skin Allergies

Save 25% at over 4,000 veterinarians nationwide through Pet Assure. Simply show your PetPlus card at any participating vet to receive savings on office visits & exams, vaccines & shots, elective procedures (e.g., dental care), surgery (e.g., spaying & neutering, emergency surgery) and hospitalization (in Network).

Member / Retail Cost Savings
$200

SAVE 25%
treat the symptoms

What To Expect

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    Prescription Medication

    There are a number of medications intended for the treatment of skin allergies in dogs, and the most common are Dorzolamide Hydrochloride, Cyclosporine ointment, and Atopica. Dorzolamide Hydrochloride, also known as Trusopt, is a topical cream that inhibits the symptoms of skin allergies including swelling, redness, and burning. Atopica is the most popular prescription medication for treating skin allergies in dogs.

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    Food

    Dogs who are experiencing skin allergies normally do not show an immediate change in eating habits, although the location of the irritated skin might make eating difficult for pets.

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    Nonprescription Options

    Skin ointments and allergic medication such as Benadryl may be used but your veterinarian should be consulted prior to the use of any non-prescription treatment options.

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    Professional Treatment

    Even if it may seem like a problem you can handle yourself, you should always consult your veterinarian. Not only because your they can help you determine the best course of treatment for your dog, but also because it is important for your veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical conditions that could be causing the symptoms.

what petplus members are saying
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Don’t take too much time thinking about it. Don’t wait. Take your dog to the vet right away.
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