Allergy Diagnostics and Treatment

We all love living in Texas, but allergies are an integral part of life in the Lone Star State. 

Allergies in people target the respiratory system--sneezing, watery eyes, wheezing, etc. 

Allergies in dogs and cats target the skin:  ITCHING!  Along with the itching comes hair loss, inflamed skin, scabs/crusts, odor, and total misery for both your pet and you.

What are pets allergic to?  The same things we are:  airborne allergies, food allergies, fleas. 

Unfortunately, allergies are NOT cured--they are MANAGED.  Each pet's allergy presentation is unique and special to that pet, so a "One Size Fits All" approach, such as simply injecting a long-acting steroid into your pet, is completely inappropriate, and could harm your pet.  Instead, given that each pet's allergy profile is unique and special,  a personalized diagnostic approach along with a personalized management plan is needed.

First, your pet's symptoms need to be sorted out, as to which is primary allergy, and which is secondary infection, and appropriate therapies instituted.   Second, once the overlay of secondary infection is getting under control, the actual severity of the allergy itself can be assessed, and a management plan developed.  Long-term allergy management can include a hypoallergenic diet, allergy testing and desensitization (yes!  just like you or your kids!) or even (in severe cases) immunosuppressive therapy.  Your pet's allergy & skin disease problems aren't likely to get "fixed" in a single visit, but have a very high probability of satisfactory long-term management when approached in this manner.

Allergy & skin disease management are a true passion of Dr. Janice Price, the Practice Director of Windmill Animal Hospital.  Call today for an appointment with her, and get your pet (and you) started on the road to comfort and an itch-free lifestyle!