Allergies are often abundant in Hyde Park, IL. This is true for both humans and animals. With animals, the classic human allergy symptoms of sneezing and watery eyes are sometimes not present. Many people bring their pet to our veterinarian at Pershing Animal Hospital for a pet exam because the pet is exhibiting itchy skin and ear infections. They are concerned about the cause and are often relieved when they find out that the pet is dealing with an allergy that can be treated easily.
What Are Pets Allergic To?
Pets are allergic to most of the same things that humans are. The most popular allergies are environmentally related. These include allergies to mold, pollen, and dust mites. Some animals are allergic to the pet dander of other species, such as a dog being allergic to cat dander. Some pets are allergic to a protein used in certain pet foods. This allergy is not as common as some people believe. Most often it is merely an intolerance, but some allergies do occur. To determine what is causing the problem, it is important to have your pet tested.
Treatments For Itchy Skin & Ear Infections
If your pet is experiencing itchy skin and ear infections, the first thing you need to do is have it seen by a veterinarian. This is to make sure it is indeed an allergy and not something else causing the symptoms. You can then attempt to keep the trigger away from your pet. Wiping your pet's fur with warm water daily might help eliminate some of the allergens. Including fish oil in your pet’s diet may also help.
Dr. Jewell may suggest using an antihistamine for the symptoms. We can help determine the correct dosage for your pet's needs based on your pet’s weight. For more difficult cases, our vet may prescribe steroids to help alleviate the symptoms. Some pets scratch so much they cause secondary infections to develop. If this is the case, we will treat the infection with antibiotics.
Contact Pershing Animal Hospital in Hyde Park, IL
If you are looking for a veterinarian in Hyde Park, IL, contact us at Pershing Animal Hospital to set up a pet exam so we can get to know you and your pet. If your pet is suffering from itchy skin or ear infections regularly, let us know. We can help get your pet’s allergies under control and get your pet back to enjoying life again. Contact us today at (773) 288-8888 to speak with a member of our team.
