Treat Your Pet’s Skin Allergies with Our Vet Near You in Los Angeles, CA
Has your pet been excessively itchy or developed rashes? Skin allergies in dogs and cats can cause a lot of discomfort. Our team at The Melrose Vet, in Los Angeles, CA, can diagnose and treat skin allergies in pets and provide other pet dermatology.
Causes of Skin Allergies in Pets
Like humans, pets can develop allergies to things like food, grass, pollen, dust mites, mold, and more. These allergens trigger an immune response that leads to itchy skin, rashes, hair loss, hot spots, and infections. Allergies often develop slowly over months to years and tend to worsen over time. Any breed of dog or cat can get skin allergies, but some are more prone.
Diagnosing Skin Allergies in Pets
Our veterinarian near you will start by reviewing your pet's medical history and doing a thorough physical exam. We will check for fleas, ringworm, mites, and infections that could mimic allergies. To pinpoint the specific allergen, intradermal skin testing is recommended. This is the most accurate way to diagnose skin allergies in pets. Blood tests are also available but less reliable.
Treatments for Skin Allergies
Avoiding the allergen is best, but not always possible. Our veterinarian may prescribe anti-itch medication for temporary relief while identifying the allergen. For environmental allergies, immunotherapies, “allergy shots”, are the most effective pet allergy treatment option. This exposes your pet to tiny amounts of the allergen to desensitize its immune system. Dietary changes or supplements can help for food allergies.
The Safety of Allergy Shots for Pets
Immunotherapy is very safe when properly administered under veterinary supervision as part of pet allergy treatment. The amounts are gradually increased throughout the course of treatment to avoid dangerous reactions. The injections contain only natural substances the pet is allergic to. Side effects are rare but may include lethargy or local swelling at the injection site. Skin testing is required first to customize the contents of the allergy shots to ensure effective treatment.
How Long till I Notice A Reduction in Symptoms?
It takes time for immunotherapy to start working, but effects build over the course of treatment. Many pets show significant improvement after 4 to 6 months of allergy shot therapy. The shots continue for 1 to 2 years until symptoms are fully controlled. Some pets may need to continue a maintenance dosage long-term to manage their allergies. Consistency is important for the best results.
Get Your Pet Skin Allergy Relief from Our Vet Near You in Los Angeles, CA
Do not let allergies make your pet miserable. The veterinarians at The Melrose Vet provide specialized pet dermatology and pet allergy testing to help provide relief. Accurate diagnosis and treatment will get your furry friend feeling better fast. Call us at (323)-310-5555 to schedule an appointment.