Many dogs will experience an allergic reaction to something, so it is important to be prepared and learn the correct treatment. Allergic reactions are uncomfortable, so we’ve compiled a guide to help you provide your dog with some relief.

Allergy testing
The first step may be figuring out exactly what is causing an allergic reaction. This usually entails a trip to the vet’s office. They will conduct a blood or skin test to determine the offending allergen. The next step will be limiting your dog’s exposure to that allergen.

Preventative measures
After you know how to recognize the reaction and exactly what it is, there are some avoidance measures you can take to help cut down on your pet’s reactions. For instance, keeping your dog out of the room for several hours while vacuuming and changing furnace filters will aid against house dust allergens. When treating a dog with sensitivity to pollen, keep them out of fields, keep your grass cut short, rinse your dog’s feet after being outside and keep your dog inside when high pollen counts have been forecast.

Topical solutions
Dogs can have allergic reactions on their skin. In some cases, topical solutions can provide some relief. This type of therapy is only a short-time solution but will temporarily relieve your dog from constant itching and discomfort. One way to soothe your dog’s skin is to mix up an oatmeal bath. Add 1 cup of plain oatmeal, such as regular or quick-cook oats, to your dog’s bath and let them soak for 15 minutes. They might not be a fan of this extra bath-time, but it will help ease irritation.

Another way to soothe your dog’s skin is to spray them with a half-and-half solution of water and apple cider vinegar. After your dog’s oatmeal bath, spray him with this solution (be careful to avoid their eyes) and do not rinse it off. This will help relieve itching as well.

Food & food additives
There are a couple different ways your dog’s meals can be altered to improve allergy relief for your dog. One of these is buying all-natural hypo-allergenic food and treats.

Also, adding natural ingredients to your dog’s food can help ease irritation. For example, the apple cider vinegar and water solution, as mentioned above, can also go on your dog’s food. This will help with any intestinal allergens your dog might have and aid in overall digestion.

Adding omega-3 fatty acids to your dog’s food will also help. These acids have anti-inflammatory properties and can help alleviate irritated skin. Make sure you ask your vet about proper dosage of omega fatty acids for your dog. This treatment has little to no side effects, yet each dog has different response times to omega fatty acids. These acids have the added benefit of boosting coat quality and shine as well.

Talking with your veterinarian
Consulting your vet to ease your pet’s irritation is key. Make sure you speak with your vet to know how serious your pet’s allergies are and what steps need to be taken. Your vet could prescribe antihistamines, steroids or other medicinal treatments.

What matters most is that your dog starts feeling some relief from their allergies.

For more health tips and tricks for your dog, check out our blog.