Allergies, are unfortunately, a common issue for many dogs and cats that can cause all types of skin issues including itching, skin and ear infections, and an overall smelly, miserable pet. There are three main causes of allergies: 1) fleas, 2) food, 3) environment. There are also other diseases (such as mite infestations and hormonal diseases) that may present similar to allergies and may need to be tested for depending on your pet’s particular presentation.  At Lowell Road Veterinary Center, we are here to help you and your pet during this very frustrating time. 

Flea Allergies:
More than a nuisance, fleas can cause severe itching and skin disease. We have even seen flea allergy dermatitis in dogs and cats that were strictly indoors. Contrary to popular belief, having a flea infestation in your house is not a reflection on how clean or sanitary your house is. If your pet has an allergy to fleas, treatment is required. At Bedford Veterinary Medical Center, we provide safe and effective product for your pet and are happy to discuss how to get rid of the parasite from your home. One thing to note is that flea eggs can live for a long time and withstand most flea treatments. Because of this, repeating environmental treatment and keeping your pet on year-round flea prevention is essential. We offer a variety of options for flea and tick prevention and would be happy to go over what is available. 

Food Allergies:
Food allergies are also seen in dogs and cats. These allergies seem to be mainly directed at a specific animal protein. Food allergies typically develop after 1 year of age, but we have seen some cases in younger pets. While we do not yet know the reason pets develop food allergies, they develop them towards foods that they have been exposed to. A food trial is the best way to see if your pet has a food allergy. It, however, does not simply entail switching your pet to another food. Please ask our veterinarians if your pet would be a candidate for a food trial over other testing. 

Environmental Allergies:
Like us, pets can be allergic to things in their environment, such as pollen's, molds and even other animals! Rather than coughing and sneezing, the reaction usually shows itself in the form of skin and ear infections. These can be seasonal or non-seasonal and can be exasperated by additional food or flea allergies. There are various ways that we treat environmental allergies, including medications and hypo-sensitizing. At Lowell Road Veterinary Center, we can send out a blood test to see what allergens your pet are allergic to. Using the results of this test, we can perform therapy specific to your pet, through injections or oral drops. This treatment isn’t for every pet, takes time to work, and doesn’t always provide immediate relief. In certain cases, referral to a dermatologist special testing may be recommended.