Many people are surprised to discover that dogs like humans suffer from dog allergies. There are several hundreds of allergies causing dogs physical discomfort but one fairly common source of these negative physical reactions are caused by dog food. Itchy skin is caused by allergies stemming from corn, soy or wheat products. Dog owners should try to ascertain which of the foods on the market are causing the uncomfortable itching.
Another major source of allergies for dogs is found in mold which grows on the particles of grain. These molds produce mycotoxins that suppress the animal’s immune system. The end result is itchy skin that will become irritated the more it is scratched by the dog. It is best to avoid give the animal foods containing these grains.
The home environment is another cause for mold spores. Unventilated areas such as kitchens and bathrooms provide ideal breeding ground for the growth of these spores. Using air conditioning to decrease the level of humidity will help greatly as well as regular cleanings. Ventilation ducts, fan and air conditioning filters, dusty electronics and other areas where mold and mildew can accumulate should be kept clean.
Another source of allergens for dogs is cats. Felines give off allergens named feld-1 that is located in their skin. This is a sticky substance that will adhere to many surfaces in a room for as long as ten years. Cat owners are encouraged to give their feline pets regular baths which will help to stop the release of these allergens. Training early on in a cat’s life will make bathing time less stressful for them.
Top of the line air filters are also effective in picking up the allergens. The filters will need to be washed or replaced on a regular basis to keep the allergen levels low. Sprinkling tannic acid on the floor and carpets is also effective in denaturing the potency of the feline allergen.
People and birds can also be a source of allergies for dogs. Dandruff is a form of allergen that adversely affects dogs. Allergy shots have been proven to be effective in some cases while early exposure to these causes of allergens is recommended for puppies. The immune system will then have the opportunity to build up its strength against these allergy causing sources.
Frequently pets and their owners share the same allergies and the reason is unknown. Tea tree oil contained in shampoos will provide temporary relief from itching but at times they can also cause additional irritation of the skin. Some owners have found that their pets will benefit from the same medication that they themselves have been prescribed.
Discovering the cause of dog allergies is a process of trial and error. The veterinarian can give dogs the scratch test where different extracts of pollen are injected into an exposed area of skin. Patience is required throughout this process so that eventually over time the sources for the allergies will be discovered.
Food allergies, the response to the high level of grains in dog food, causes itching which in turn causes mild to severe scratching. At the same time, the dog food is lacking the natural enzymes that your dog’s stomach needs to fully digest the food. Probiotics help your dog’s intestinal track to accept the food and absorb the needed nutrients into the body.
Red, blotchy or dry, flaky skin can be a sign of your dog not getting enough needed nutrients from his food. Probiotics can help dogs to absorb the vital nutrients they need from their food and crowd out an overgrowth of bacteria in the body. It also helps the dog eliminate wastes and toxins in the body, resulting in an overall healthy skin and coat.
Excessive shedding can be caused by allergies, age or poor digestion. Of course, dogs can be expected to shed but excessive shedding can be greatly reduced by introducing probiotics into the digestive system.
Probiotics are essential for your dog’s good health! Find out why at Dog Probiotics.