Best Treatments for Dog Allergies
Whether its winter or spring, your dog can struggle with allergies, resulting in symptoms such as a runny nose, red, itchy skin, and constant licking. While more extreme cases may require regular visits to the vet, most pet owners can help their pups manage their symptoms at home. Here are a few of our recommendations for the best treatments for dog allergies!
Out With the Carbs!
High glycemic carbs, to be exact. Foods that are high on the glycemic index act as food for yeast. And this excess yeast growth on your dog can result in itchy skin. For a dog that struggles with allergies, this can make a bad situation even more miserable. Foods such as white potatoes, rice, corn, wheat, etc. all fall into this category. Unfortunately, they are relatively common base ingredients in many brands of kibble and treats. However, you can definitely find alternative food choices that use sweet potato, pumpkin, beans, chickpeas or peas as their binding ingredient. For treats, try switching to protein only dehydrated options or those that only include fruits and veggies such as green beans, carrots, broccoli, etc. Making this adjustment can do wonders for your pup's immune system and acts as one of the best treatments for dog allergies.
Crank Up The Omega-3s
One of the best ways to help your dog's itchy, dry skin? Add some extra omega-3s to their diet! Frequently sourced from fish oil, omega-3s are a natural anti-inflammatory, which means they are a perfect defense against allergic responses and symptoms. In particular, they work wonders for itchy skin! As a supplement, they can be given in pill form or added as a liquid to your dog's food. While fish oil is the most commonly found type of omega-3, you can get a much more concentrated and minimally-processed form through phytoplankton. This usually comes in powder form and can be added to your pet's meal as well. Another plus of omega-3s? They are an excellent choice for arthritic dogs as well. Finally, they provide amazing cognitive support for a pup at any age.
Allergy Medicine- A Fast-Acting Treatment
Did you know that Zyrtec, Claratin, and Benedryl can all be used to help your pet as well? While you will have to make adjustments to the portion size, these three brands of allergy medicine can be used to provide immediate relief to your pup during allergy season. They can even be given safely long-term to those pets that suffer year-round. Keep in mind that your pet may respond better to one type than another. So, it may be worth it to try each one to gauge which works the best. And, of course, be sure to confirm with your vet the appropriate amount to give your pet.
When it comes to the best treatments for dog allergies, doing a combination of the above methods is ideal. Addressing the sources as well as the symptoms should give you the most reward for your efforts. Regardless of the type of supplement or medication you choose to give your pet, you can rest assured that our professional pet sitters have your pup covered! Reach out today to learn more about our services!