When your pet comes in contact with a foreign substance, it may have an allergic reaction. When your pet has an allergic reaction, its immune system also reacts. Your pet may suffer from several skin, environmental, and food allergies. These types of pet allergies cause many challenges for your furry friend. For example, your pet may be allergic to bites from fleas. The fleas' salvia makes your pet itch, particularly around its tail. Your pet’s skin may become scabbed, inflamed, and red. You may also see your pet scratching its ears or biting its paws due to food allergies. Allergies may cause gastrointestinal concerns for your pet. If you think your pet has allergies and you live in Columbia, SC, visit our veterinarian at Ambassador Animal Hospital.

Common Allergy Symptoms

You may see many symptoms in your pet in response to an allergic reaction. The worst sign is when your pet’s blood sugar drops rapidly; they undergo anaphylactic shock. Some other symptoms you should look for are hives, red and inflamed skin, and eyes that are itchy and runny. You may also see swelling around parts of your dog’s face. Some other symptoms may include sneezing, diarrhea, vomiting, and ear infections. Finally, if you see your dog constantly licking its skin, that may indicate an allergy.

Possible Treatments for Allergies

The best way for your pet to avoid an allergic reaction is to avoid the allergen. That is too difficult to maintain. You can make lifestyle changes to help keep your pet away from whatever is causing the allergy. If that is not possible, consider other treatment options. For example, if your pet has a food allergy, you could consider changing your pet’s food to see if that helps improve the reaction. If none of these lifestyle changes make a difference, you can speak to your pet’s veterinarian about prescribing medication for your pet’s allergies. This medication may help relieve the symptoms your pet has.

Why Choose Ambassador Animal Hospital?

We take your pet's health seriously at Ambassador Animal Hospital in Columbia, SC. We know your pets are an essential part of your family, and they are part of ours. We care for your pets like they were our own. Visiting the veterinarian can be stressful for you and your pet. Our mission is to keep your pets comfortable and happy while they are in our office. We work hard to minimize any stress your pet may feel. Contact us at (803) 787-3840 to schedule an appointment and see how we care for your pets.