Dermatology Month
During October, it is known as Dermatology month. For others, it may mean that it’s daylight savings! Which means light filled mornings and plenty of time to play with your pets after work. As our body clocks adjust to the time change, spring is also in full swing! With the seasonal change in the air, pollen is floating around from trees, flowers and grasses. This can cause your pets to feel similar allergy symptoms to us humans.
We have put together a list of common symptoms to look out for in your pets:
• Increased scratching
• Itchy, red, moist or scabbed skin
• Irritated, runny eyes
• Itchy ears and possible ear infections
• Sneezing
• Vomiting
• Diarrhorea
• Constant licking or biting at one or multiple areas
If you suspect that your dog or cat has any of the above symptoms, please get in contact with our team. We will give them a full assessment and recommend a treatment plan. Allergies can easily turn into chronic conditions. Therefore, it is important to seek advice in the very early stages.
Home Allergy Treatment:
• Regular bathing of your pet with a mild hypoallergenic shampoo. Using this can assist in removing allergens from sitting on the skin and reduces itching
• Reduce your pets’ exposure to environmental triggers eg. keeping them inside on high pollen or grass cutting days
Pet Doctor’s Treatment Options:
• Medicated shampoos, conditioners, sprays, or other topical agents
• Antihistamines
• Antibiotics
• Antifungal medicines (for yeast infections)
• Fatty acid supplements
• Short-acting corticosteroids for immediate relief
• Immune-mediating drugs, such as cyclosporine
• Immunotherapy injections (allergy injections individualised for each patient)
With only two months left until Christmas or 66 days to be precise (but who’s counting 😉), it’s time to think about making plans on how your pets will be cared for during the festive season. Therefore, Pet Doctor at Woodville and West Lakes is your #1 local and go-to Adelaide veterinarian. Contact our friendly team who are happy to assist you with all pet enquiries.
(Sources for allergy symptoms and treatment: https://pets.webmd.com/dogs/allergies-dogs#1 and http://www.americanveterinarian.com/journals/amvet/2016/march2016/its-spring-and-my-pet-itches-a-look-at-seasonal-allergies)