Dogs that scratch excessively may be allergic to something. Dogs may be allergic to things like flea bites, pollens, molds, grasses, trees, wool, tobacco smoke, certain foods, and even other pets. Regardless of the offending agent known as allergen, the main signs are scratching and chewing the skin, which may result in extensive skin damage. The damaged skin is then highly susceptible to bacterial infection. Allergy testing may be performed by skin testing or blood testing. Testing is performed to determine the allergic cause and to develop a vaccine that can be administered on a regular basis to stimulate your pet's immune system to fight the allergic causes. Allergy treatment by injections may take one year to see results and is moderately successful. Other dog allergy medication includes antihistamines e.g. Clemastine, a long-acting antihistamine to control itchy skin in animals, and for temporarily relief of the common cold, hay fever, and other allergy symptoms, such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy, watery eyes. Others include steroids, medicated shampoos, and omega 3 fatty acids. Some pets require continual treatment. Regular bathing and grooming may be necessary to remove allergens from the coat and maintain a healthy coat. Allergic contact dermatitis is an uncommon allergic skin reaction that occurs in the thin-skinned areas of the body that contact the floor or ground when your dog lies down. The abdomen, lower chest, underside of the tail, scrotum, ears, chin and backs of the paws are commonly affected. The degree of itchiness varies but may be severe enough to cause intense scratching or chewing by your dog, with resulting skin damage. In some cases, bacteria may infect the damaged skin. Some dogs may react to plastic feeding dishes or chew toys, though sores are usually confined to the chin and mouth in these cases. In many cases, however, the offending material is unknown or impossible to avoid. Anti-inflammatory drugs are the best treatment when the cause is unknown or cannot be avoided. Routine bathing is beneficial in removing the causative substance from the skin and coat.
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