Spring Allergies

Hi again!
Easter's over now but Spring is here! Along with spring flowers and green grass comes lots of pollen, grass molds, fungi, bugs and fleas, and you guessed it....ALLERGIES. Many of our pets have allergies, just as we do. They may exhibit coughing or sneezing or wheezing, but more often, they itch, lose hair, lick their feet AND develope secondary skin infections and hotspots. Many people do not know that our pets can take antihistamines. Antihisatmines can be a very useful mainstay in preventing allergy signs and symptoms, but it is very important for your veterinarian to advise you on dosage, frequency, and type of antihistamine. Some animals may have underlying problems that will necessitate a different drug or dose so DON'T skip this step! 
Other pets may need more help. Modulating the immune system is the goal of corticosteroids, cyclosporins and others. Supplements such as omega fatty acids can be antiinflammatory as well and can enhance the effectiveness of antihistamines. Corticosteroids can be helpful in stopping an allergic reaction that is already underway. Steroids CAN have side effects, so, again, check with your veterinarian who can administer or prescribe the appropriate drug and dosage. Some pets should avoid steroids due to underlying disease process, so ask your vet to run appropriate tests if needed to avoid complications.
Many pet owners choose to have their pets allergy tested and undergo desensitization process. This addresses the primary cause of the allergies, rather than treating the symptoms. It is more expensive initially, but can be very rewarding in the long haul, since allergies are a life-long event in most of pets affected. Don't overlook this choice as a rewarding alternative to drugs. Your veterinarian will have information for allergy testing.
Your veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics, sprays and/or special shampoos. The goal is to help control topical flaking, seborrhea, and bacterial and fungal populations on the skin. This is a very important part of allergy control for most pets with allergies.
Don't forget about flea control. There are lots of topical and oral products available. Over-the-counter drugs are of varying effectiveness, and some have additional capability to prevent or treat other parasites at the same time, so talk to your veterinarian about which is best for your pet.
Pets don't have to suffer with their allergies. There ARE options that are effective.

Happy Easter......watch out for chocolate bunnies!!!!!!

Hi,
This is a first in many to come of tips for the health, welfare, and ....just plain love...of your cat or dog. It is my pleasure to provide these discussions. I hope you will participate and we will work together to keep our furry critters happy and healthy.

Today the topic is timely, since we are in the Easter season and there's ALOT of chocolate floating around! Some of it may be on the countertop, some in the Easter Baskets, and some even on the ground following that Easter Egg Hunt at church or school...or home!
Most of us will agree that chocolate is WONDERFUL....WE LIKE IT. Well, guess what? So do our pets, especially dogs! They love it almost as much as we do. BUT, it is very poorly metabolized by our pets and can result in toxicity...even life threatening toxicity. Some animals don't have to eat much to get sick, while others will tolerate more, but the bottom line is: DON'T GIVE YOUR CAT OR DOG CHOCOLATE.
There are lots of other treats that are safe....use these and do not give in to the temptation to cater to their chocolate tastebuds!

So, let's hear it...anyone out there ever experienced the animal ER at 3 a.m. after your dog found your chocolate stash? What did you do? What could you have done?