Itchy Pug - Itching Scratching Series

Dog Skin Allergies

The itchy Pug may suffer from allergic skin disease. Allergic skin disease in the Pug may be caused by an adverse food reaction to a food allergy. Allergic skin disease in the Pug may be caused by canine atopic dermatitis.

Dog Skin Allergies

Flea allergy dermatitis is common and easy to treat. Flea allergy dermatitis usually involves the dog scratching or rubbing its back and the base of the tail. Flea dirt which looks like black specks will be seen against the skin deep in the dogs' hair coat.

Dog Skin Allergies

Food allergy the Pug may start very early in life. If your Pug had skin and ear problems from the day you brought it home as a puppy, your Pug may well have a food allergy. Food allergy causes chronic ear infection, itchy rashes and an itchy bottom which causes scooting (rubbing the anus along the floor).

Dog Skin Allergies

The itchy Pug may have canine atopic dermatitis. Canine atopic dermatitis is an allergy to pollen, dust mites and household spores. The allergens can be inhaled or breathed in, ingested by licking the skin or can pass transdermally. Until recently, it was thought that canine atopic dermatitis was caused by inhaled allergens. This is still partly true but the vast majority of allergen passes transdermally across the skin. This is because the dog with canine atopic dermatitis has a faulty skin barrier. The protective skin barrier is deficient in a protein called sphingosine. The skin loses moisture and dries out and pollens come in causing an allergic reaction which manifests as an itchy rash.

There are some natural treatments that really work. It is best to seek a qualified opinion on natural treatment. There is a lot of uninformed opinion that is promoting treatments that are unsatisfactory.

Itchy Pug - Itching Scratching Series

Dog Skin Allergies

Canine Allergies - Discount Pet Meds Treat Hot Spots, Flea Allergy Dermatitis and More

Dog Skin Allergies

Most dog owners are familiar with hot spots but not all realize the irritated patch just above the base of their pet's tail is due to canine allergies. Fleas love to gather in that location and as they bite the dog chews at the base of his tail.

Dog Skin Allergies

He chews because he can't reach that area with a paw for a good scratch. The incessant chewing further inflames the skin and the result is a round area of irritation that is often furless and may appear swollen and feel hot to the touch.

Dog Skin Allergies

Dogs with flea allergy dermatitis frequently suffer from hot spots. Even a few fleas on a dog with allergies to the pest can lead to a severe skin reaction. The allergy is to the saliva deposited on the animal by the flea as the pest bites and draws blood. The discomfort is not from the saliva itself but form the dog's immune system which is overreacting to the allergen.

Dog Skin Allergies

In people, bites by mosquitoes and biting gnats leave bumps that itch to distraction for a few minute at least. For a dog with flea allergies, the itch is constant as the fleas continue to crawl over his skin and bite again and again. Canine allergies may be reaction to ingredients in food, to seasonal pollen and grasses, to cleaning products and even to certain materials or plastics.

Atopic dermatitis is the term used to describe the reaction when a sensitive dog inhales or comes into contact with an allergen such as dust mites, seasonal pollens or mold. The main symptom is itching and dogs will rub faces against furniture, rub against fences and chew at their skin. The attempt to relieve the itch causes the skin to become more inflamed. Dry, flaky patches of skin may appear and hot spots may form and become hairless lesions.

Atopica has shown to be highly effective in three-fourths of the dogs treated with this pet medicine. Given daily, side effects of Atopica are minor digestive problems that are short term for most dogs. The one drawback to Atopica for pet owners may be the cost. With a prescription from your vet you can obtain Atopica at discount pet med sites online for a considerable cost savings.

Triamcinolone is a corticosteroid pet med that is usually reserved for treatment of serious skin disease that has not responded to other treatments. There is the possibility of side effects when using corticosteroids that must be balanced with consideration of quality of life for an animal with severe skin problems.

Dexamethasone is a potent synthetic glucocorticoid steroid drug that acts as an anti-inflammatory and suppresses the immune system. This is the pet medicine your vet will administer should your dog suffer from an allergic reaction causing anaphylactic shock or trauma to the spinal cord. Dexamethasone is often prescribed for a variety of eye and skin problems in canines. Side effects are common with long term use and vets often prescribe dosages given every other day to minimize the risk.

Temeril-P is a safe pet med used to address the problem if itching without regard to what allergen is the cause. Termeril-P is also used to treat "kennel cough" which is a form of bronchitis in dogs. If the cause of your dog's itching skin is a mystery, Termeril-P may well be what your vet prescribes as it relieves canine allergies caused by internal and external triggers. Temeril-P is available by prescription only but can be purchased from discount pet med sites online.

Canine Allergies - Discount Pet Meds Treat Hot Spots, Flea Allergy Dermatitis and More

Dog Skin Allergies

Canine Allergies - Five Types of Allergies in Dogs

Dog Skin Allergies

Humans aren't the only ones that can develop allergies because dogs can too. There are five common types of canine allergies. They include flea, food, contact, inhalant, and bacterial. Let's take a look at these different types of allergies in dogs.

Dog Skin Allergies

Food

Dog Skin Allergies

One of the first things that your dog can be allergic to is food. Most allergic reactions to food cause diarrhea and vomiting. However, skin reactions can occur in some cases. Some of the common foods that dogs can be allergic to include wheat, corn, dairy, beef, lamb, and oats. This type of allergy can take a while to become a problem.

Dog Skin Allergies

Fleas

One of the most common types of canine allergies is to fleas. Instead of being allergic to the flea itself, your dog will be allergic to the flea's saliva when bitten. The affected area will swell, itch, and turn red. This will prompt your dog to scratch at the area constantly which causes hot spots and hair loss. As most dog owners know, controlling fleas in the environment can be extremely difficult, so this type of allergy can be very troublesome.

Contact

Allergies in dogs can also occur when something touches their skin. Common culprits include topical medications, carpet, and bedding. Some dogs can also have a reaction to flea collars. This type of allergy usually causes redness and pus-filled welts. It can be prevented by recognizing the problem material and keeping your dog away from it.

Bacterial

Canine allergies can also be caused by bacteria. Dogs have various species of bacteria present in their bodies that normally causes no harm. However, some dogs can develop an allergy to this bacteria and be prone to infections. The main symptom is hair loss that looks very similar to canine ringworm. Treatment involves giving your dog antibiotics.

Inhalant

One of the final types of allergies in dogs is the inhalant variety. It is characterized by a reaction to something that your dog breathes in. Common substances include mold, dust mites, and pollen. Since some of these substances only occur seasonally, your dog will only have problems at certain times of the year. Other substances are present throughout the year, so they can cause problems anytime.

Canine Allergies - Five Types of Allergies in Dogs

Dog Skin Allergies

Skin Allergies in Dogs - Why Natural Remedies Are Better

Dog Skin Allergies

When you see skin allergies in dogs, feeling sympathy is the first thing that comes to mind. They're might be in pain, roll around in irritation, or mope around because no one is helping them. Families will take their dog to the vet, but if the medicine doesn't work, continuous trips become expensive.

Dog Skin Allergies

It's also important to consider the type of medications your dog is given. Skin allergies in dogs require traditional meds, which come with side effects. If these are not taken care of appropriately, it could lead to other problems in their body. After all, dealing with allergies is a stressful issue for most dogs.

Dog Skin Allergies

We've scoured the Internet for various vitamin supplements designed for skin allergies in dogs. After extensive research, we found Nuvet was offering more benefits than any other option. Take a look at some of the ingredients Nuvet uses to alleviate dog allergies:

Dog Skin Allergies

* Alfalfa - This Nuvet supplement ingredient offers several benefits. Alfalfa offers vitamin D, E, and K, as well as beta carotene. You can also find plenty of chlorophyll, calcium, and fats. When dog skin allergies are present, Alfalfa is known to eliminate and control them.

* Amino Acids - Dogs need amino acids as much as humans do. Most people associate this ingredient with build muscle, but it also helps with skin allergies in dogs. There 28 different amino acids, but some of them are specifically designed to help with skin and coat problems. Healthier skin for your dog will reduce the chance of allergies.

* Vitamin B-Complex - We hear about Vitamin B in regards to keeping the skin looking young, but it can also help with skin allergies in dogs. Nuvet supplements offer an ample dose, so the skin will stay healthy and continue to be maintained.

* Zinc - When a dog skin allergies are present, it's possible for them to itch the infected area. Zinc is used in Nuvet supplements for a variety of reasons. One of them is to increase the ability to heal wounds faster.

When you really think about skin issues in dogs, it all comes back to being healthy from the inside-out. Nuvet offers a natural remedy to help all areas of concern. We recommend reading more about all the ingredients associated with these products.

Here is a list of some other ingredients found in Nuvet supplements:

* Alpha Amylase
* Blue Green Algae
* Brewer's Yeast
* Cat's Claw
* Chicken Liver
* Copper
* Evening Primrose Oil
* L Methionine
* And many others

Allergies in dogs develop because of something else in their bodies along with allergens. When the proper supplements are used, dog skin allergies can be eliminated and maintained. We found Nuvet to offer the best solution.

Skin Allergies in Dogs - Why Natural Remedies Are Better

Dog Skin Allergies

My Dog is Itching - Why is He Scratching, Licking, Chewing and Biting Himself?

Dog Skin Allergies

Why is my dog scratching, licking, chewing and biting himself?

Dog Skin Allergies

There are lots of different skin diseases which will cause itching in dogs, including flea allergy, flea bites, air-borne allergies, hot spots, food allergies, mite infections and hormone imbalances.

Dog Skin Allergies

To find out what the problem is you will probably need a visit to your veterinarian, but you can get a clue from which parts of the body your dog is attacking and when the itchiness started.

Dog Skin Allergies

Different skin problems tend to affect dogs in different areas of the body and start at different ages.

In temperate climates, the commonest causes of itching in dogs are flea bites and flea allergy. Affected dogs usually bite and chew the top of the rump and the base of the tail. This problem is usually seen in warm, humid seasons. Dogs can be affected as early as six months of age. If your dog has flea bites or flea allergy you will usually - but not always - be able to find fleas or flea dirt on his skin or in his coat.

The second most common cause of itching in dogs is atopic dermatitis. This is an allergic reaction to things floating in the air, such as dust mites, pollens and moulds. This problem usually starts when a dog is between one and three years of age. Affected dogs are usually chewing, biting, licking or scratching at their feet, ears, armpits, lips or eyelids. Some dogs with atopic dermatitis will also be sneezing.

At any age, dogs can develop sensitivities to foods which will cause them to itch. The itching tends to occur around the face, the ears and the perineum (below the tail). Some dogs with food sensitivity will also vomit or have diarrhea.

Demodectic mange is a mite infection which usually occurs in young dogs. Hair loss and itching usually occur around the lips and eyelids, on the head, inside the ear flaps or between the toes.

Scabies, also called sarcoptic mange, typically affects the edges of the ear flaps, the elbows, the hocks and the underside of the belly.

A dog which develops a skin disease in later life may have a hormonal imbalance or, more rarely, skin cancer.

Itching can also be caused by other parasites, ringworm, bacterial skin infections, contact dermatitis, hot spots and problems with the immune system.

Some dogs can have more than one skin problem at the same time. Dogs with flea allergy dermatitis often develop atopic dermatitis, and vice versa.

Diagnosing a skin problem can be difficult and should be done by a veterinarian. He or she will make a diagnosis based on the dog's age and breed, the dog's age when the problem began, any signs or history of other diseases, diet, examination of the dog's skin, checking for fleas or other parasites, skin tests and possibly blood tests or allergy testing.

If a dog is itching, scratching, chewing, biting or licking at itself it will be suffering a lot of discomfort, and needs to be taken to a veterinarian to have the problem diagnosed and treated.

My Dog is Itching - Why is He Scratching, Licking, Chewing and Biting Himself?

Dog Skin Allergies

Dogs and Allergies

Dog Skin Allergies

We as humans can have a variety of allergies, allergies to food, pollution, dust and just about anything else imaginable. Well, our wonderful family dog can be allergic to things too and it may take us a while to finally figure it out.

Dog Skin Allergies

Pets that scratch a lot may be allergic to something, sometimes you may find that your pet scratches significantly only at certain times of the year. It is possible that your dog, like you, can have seasonal allergies. Dogs can be allergic not only to food, but to pollen, grasses, trees, dust, fleas, wool, tobacco smoke and even, believe it or not, to other pets.

Dog Skin Allergies

A dog can have an allergic reaction simply by coming into contact with whatever substance it is allergic to (wool/fleas), by inhaling the substance (smoke/pollen), and from food.

Dog Skin Allergies

Any dog that spends most of its time scratching and possibly chewing on itself is showing signs of a possible allergy or at least a condition that requires some type of treatment. Constant scratching and chewing leads to skin disruptions and ultimately bacterial infections. Most people think the constant scratching is a problem with fleas (possible), but more than likely it is an inhalant allergy.

Another sign of a dog with an allergy problem is a respiratory condition; coughing, sneezing/wheezing, runny nose or even runny eyes, and a third symptom may show up in the digestive system, as diarrhea or vomiting.

There are certain breeds that are more predisposed to respiratory allergic conditions than others, these dogs can suffer the same as their humans when the air is filled with grass and tree pollen, dust, mildew, ragweed and mold. Such breeds as Schnauzers, Irish Setters, Boston Terriers, Scottish Terriers, Cairn Terriers, West Highland Terriers and wire-haired Terriers are among the most common affected with air type allergies.

Females for some reason are affected more so than males and it usually occurs between the ages of one to three years.

How are dogs tested for inhalant allergies?

Diagnosing an allergy suffered by a dog is not really an easy matter. Much is done on a hit and miss basis. To complicate matters a thyroid condition could even enter into the picture. In order to find the culprit and if the allergy is not fairly evident, like a flea problem or even or a new food, a dog will have to go through a fairly lengthy and systematic diagnosis. There is no magic way to figure out the problem.

The last and most costly thing that can be done is the hyposensitization testing procedure using specific antigen injections. The cost is extremely high, the age of the dog needs to be considered as re-testing may be necessary in the future and the success rate runs about 50 percent, which is just about the success rate found when testing humans.

What kind of treatment can be given to help the problem?

The dog may be given Omega-3 fatty acids, gamma linoleic acid and/or certain vitamins and natural anti-inflammatories. Natural anti-inflammatory drugs and along with the vitamins and Omega-3 is usually a good first try in helping to alleviate the symptoms.

Antihistamines and other therapies do work, but often times make the dog a wee bit groggy. Any type of steroid drug should be used only as a last resort. The use of steroids, along with supplements and antihistamines will control the allergy, but will not come up with an overall treatment of the condition and it will return.

Corticosteroids reduce itching by calming the inflammation, however, there are side effects that can cause problems. Not only does it cause thirst and increased appetite, increased need to urinate and behavioral problems; it can cause diabetes, lack of resistance to infection and a susceptibility to seizures. It should be used as a last resort and only for a short time.

Shampoo therapy will work in some cases as bathing with hypoallergenic shampoos has helped many dogs. It seems that some allergens can be absorbed through the skin and frequent bathing reduces the exposure.

Bathing the dog with Epsom salts or colloidal oatmeal with also give temporary relief and will have to be done frequently. Be careful using sprays and ointments that are not recommended by your vet, they could contain harmful substances.

Antibiotics can be used when the dog has been biting, scratching and chewing on its skin. The constant irritation creates opportunities for bacteria to cause infection and the antibiotics should be used to control it.

There are vaccines available for dogs, just as there are for people, they do work, but they are slow to work and can be costly. It is said they work about 70 to 75 percent of the time.

Environmental allergies can be handled as best you can; air conditioning in the house can reduce the chance of outside airborne allergens coning in. Dehumidifiers can reduce the problem of mold. An air cleaner with a HEPA filter will reduce dust and pollens within the household.

One important thing to keep in mind if you have a dog with serious allergies and you are considering breeding it, please Do Not. You will just be adding to a situation that will cause not only other dogs' a problem, the owners who love them too.

How can you handle the common allergy problems?

Fleas are not the earth shattering problem they were a few years ago, thank heaven, the invention of the flea spot on products have reduced the headaches of banishing fleas. We have for the most part rid ourselves and our pets of fleas, just check with your vet to see which product is the best for you to use on your pet.

Food is a common allergy for dogs, however, believe it or not, it is only a 10 to 20 percent common problem. A food allergy is rarely ever fatal, but it can be most annoying. The constant itching can lead to serious bacterial or fungal infection. If the allergy causes gastrointestinal problems you are faced with vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss.

An allergy to the food your dog is eating will not cause both; it will cause an itching problem or a gastrointestinal problem. The most common problem is the itching, which in turn, not only makes your dog and you miserable, it creates a very unsightly looking dog.

Certain breeds such as golden retrievers, schnauzers, and West Highland White Terriers are thought of by some vets, to be the most at risk for food allergies, though this has not been proven conclusively.

Protein is generally the biggest culprit in causing food allergies in dogs. The most common sources of protein are, beef, lamb, pork, chicken, turkey, and eggs. Since we all need protein as part of our everyday diet, it is hard to eliminate it from your dog's diet. A food allergy takes time to show its ugly face, unless it is a new food that was recently added to your pet's diet.

Determining what food is causing the problem, especially if you are like me, and offer a mixed variety of foods to your pet, it will take time, patience and due diligence. It is important for the dog to be on a hypoallergenic diet for at least 4 to 6 weeks. A hypoallergenic diet consists of protein that has been predigested into very tiny bits, so the immune system does not recognize that it is there. This food can only be purchased at your vet's and is fairly expensive. Along with the special food, the whole family must be aware that the dog is not to have any other food or treats while the 4 to 6 week period is in progress. Now, this can really be a challenge, when looking into those big brown eyes.

The itching should gradually disappear while the dog is on the diet, once the itching is gone and the dog has recovered. Next comes what is considered the challenge and requires patience, you restore the dog to its original diet and watch what happens. If the itching starts again, it is back on to the special food until the itching is gone again and then you begin to add your dog's other foods, one by one.

This means that whatever your dog normally has been eating, you add it one food at a time and watch for a reaction. It will take several weeks for a reaction to show up and during that time, you do not feed the dog anything else, but the current food (no treats or table food). If it does not cause a problem, if is fairly safe to think that food is okay, then you add another of your dog's foods and go through the same process. Your vet will advise you as to the best way to do this, you also will be feeding the hypoallergenic food, too.

Allergies in dogs can also be tricky, as your dog cannot only suffer from a food allergy, but from an inhalant allergy also. The secret here is to find the culprit that is causing the problem for your dog and ultimately and hopefully end it forever. This is not a problem that you alone can solve; allergy problems need the help of your vet, so at the first sign of an itching problem, see your vet at once. Your dog will appreciate it and so will you.

Dogs and Allergies

Dog Skin Allergies

Does Your Dog Have Allergies?

Dog Skin Allergies

Many people don't realize that their dogs, just like human
beings, can suffer from allergies. In fact, about twenty
percent of the dogs in the United States alone suffer from
one allergy or another, with flea allergy dermatitis being
the most common form of allergies in dogs. Other types
include atopic dermatitis, food allergies, and inhalant allergies.

Dog Skin Allergies

Signs and symptoms of dog allergies may vary but are often
marked by persistent itching and discoloration of the skin
(most common in skin allergies), coughing, sneezing,
wheezing, and mucus discharge (most common in inhalant allergies), and nausea, lethargy, vomiting, and diarrhea
(common to food allergies and other ailments.)

Dog Skin Allergies

Over-the-counter preparations and treatments for common dog allergies exist and may be purchased at any good pet supply
store, but care should be taken when choosing such
treatments. Consultation with a vet is the best first course
of action for several reasons. First of all, what you think
is an allergic reaction may actually be signs of a more
serious ailment and a vet should be the one to determine
whether that is the case. Secondly, if the allergy is severe
enough, over-the-counter treatments may not be sufficient to
treat the symptoms and a prescription strength treatment may
be required. There is also the chance that the dog does not
have an allergy at all. The last thing you want to do is
medicate your pet unnecessarily.

Dog Skin Allergies

If you do think your dog has some type of allergy, consult
your vet. The doctor will be able to perform tests to
determine whether an allergic condition exists, how severe
it is, and what the proper treatment will be. If the dog has
an allergy to certain foods, it will be imperative to
restrict the animal's diet to eliminate those items that
cause a reaction. The vet's testing methods can help to
determine whether this type of allergy exists as well. If
the dog has flea allergy dermatitis (an allergic reaction to
the saliva of fleas, rather than to the insects themselves),
an extreme flea prevention regimen will be recommended.

Just like humans, dogs that suffer from various allergies
can live comfortably with them if they are detected and
treated properly. It is important to keep in mind that this
is not a time to "play doctor" by attempting to diagnose and
treat a possible allergic condition yourself. Only your
veterinarian is qualified to determine whether your dog is
suffering from allergies and what course of action to take.

This article may be published in it's entirety provided an
active (clickable) link to
http://DogBlog.thynke.com
is included along with the "About the Author" resource box.

Does Your Dog Have Allergies?

Dog Skin Allergies

Hypoallergenic Dog Food for Your Sensitive Dog

Dog Skin Allergies

Hypoallergenic dog food may be the best gift you can give your dog. If your dog exhibits vomiting, diarrhea, skin problems such as itching, scratching or in some cases self-mutilation, it could be the result of inferior food. There are many dogs that have intolerance to grains and some have difficulty with some meats. Changing to a hypoallergenic dog food may solve all of these problems.

Dog Skin Allergies

Some dogs are so sensitive to some foods that they can have chronic ear infections. The ear and skin irritations may be relieved by antibiotics or corticosteroids, but the problems return once the medication is discontinued. It may take some time for your vet to discover the cause. It is up to the owner to do some research on their own and present the possibility to the vet if the condition is not resolved.

Dog Skin Allergies

If your dog manifests any of those symptoms and no relief is found through the medication, it would be a good idea to switch to a hypoallergenic dog food. These can be found at most pet stores and some of the larger grocery stores. Read the labels. Dog food labels contain a lot of ingredients that you may not be able to pronounce. These could be the things causing your dogs allergies. Natural dog foods that are hypoallergenic contain no ingredients that are unfamiliar to humans. It is advisable to feed dogs human grade foods.

Dog Skin Allergies

Hypoallergenic dog food is based on a protein other than what your dog may be eating. Some have venison base, bison, kangaroo, fish, lamb or chicken. The carbohydrates that go into the better foods are vegetables and brown rice. There are some brands that produce a solely vegetarian, and use the protein rich vegetables as the protein base.

Hypoallergenic Dog Food for Your Sensitive Dog

Dog Skin Allergies

Dog Food For Allergies: What Is Best for Your Dog?

Dog Skin Allergies

Introduction

Dog Skin Allergies

What is the best dog food for allergies? Chances are that by the time you ask that question your beloved pet is suffering from common allergy symptoms like itchy or inflamed skin, eyes, back or tail; sneezing, vomiting, constipation or diarrhea or constant licking and scratching.

Dog Skin Allergies

The truth is that just like human beings, dogs can be allergic to a variety of substances: shampoo, perfumes, cleaning or flea-control products or dust; however, when it comes to diagnosing allergies in our pets, it is best to start with the ingredients in your pet's diet.

Dog Skin Allergies

Irritants in Dog Food

Common irritants in your dog's food can include, corn, soy, wheat, dairy and even beef or chicken. Low grade quality meat (usually classified as "by-product" in pet food) or low-grade quality grains as well as artificial flavorings, colorings and preservatives can also be allergy culprits.

As I have stated on many occasions, a diet of natural, fresh, healthy homemade recipes puts you in complete control of the ingredients that you feed your pet. Here you can choose a diet that is rich in animal protein and not plant protein which is found in many lower rated commercial pet foods (and to which many dogs are allergic).

In addition, you need not worry about any additional chemicals, preservatives or additives which may be irritating your dog's health.

Choosing Limited Ingredient Dog Foods

If you cannot go the natural homemade recipe route, your best bet is to choose what is known as a limited ingredient dog food. Sometimes, these are also called hypoallergenic dog foods. Again, rather than give you specific brands (since there are as many brands as there are opinions about which is best), allow me to provide some rough principles to help you choose a good food for allergies.

1. Hypoallergenic pet foods use alternative animal protein sources. In other words, many replace beef or chicken, with duck, venison, elk, rabbit or salmon.

2. Hypoallergenic pet foods replace grains such as corn, soy or wheat, which are found in various commercial pet foods with barley, oatmeal, brown rice or potatoes.

3. Hypoallergenic pet foods contain no artificial ingredients.

4. May limited ingredient dog foods go so far as to provide you with organic animal sources. This means, using free-range animals and grains, fruits and vegetables that do not use pesticides.

If you will using commercial dog food in feeding your pet, brands like Wysong, Sojo's Complete or Raw Addiction fit the above criteria.

However, as mentioned earlier, a diet of homemade recipes allows you to control each and every ingredient in your dog's diet. This allows you to test for certain foods and add or subtract them depending on how your dog reacts to each one.

In the end, you want to begin feeding a small and limited number of fresh ingredients if you suspect your dog has a food allergy.

Dog Food For Allergies: What Is Best for Your Dog?

Dog Skin Allergies

The Top Most Allergies Symptoms

Dog Skin Allergies

An allergy is generally referred to as the disorder of the immune system, wherein the body generally reacts to any harmless external environment and causes some kind of discomfort. An allergy is something that is very common and can be treated perfectly well, if detected effectively. It is referred to as one of the four forms of hypersensitivity of the skin and is also characterized by the excessive activation of a certain white blood cell called mast cells. Allergies can be mild and sometimes can be severe too; but they need to be treated well, based on the causes of the allergy. Most of the allergy has no specific cause, often the cause is rather unknown or goes unnoticed; however an important diagnosis includes examining the symptoms of the allergy and then treating it thereby. There are many symptoms for allergies, some of them are -

Dog Skin Allergies

• When there is an allergy that generally surrounds the nose region, there will be a prominent swelling of the nasal mucosa; which is a good enough symptoms to make sure that proper treatment is provided.

Dog Skin Allergies

• The sinuses generally respond to allergy in a manner that causes several allergic sinusitis attacks; this gives an account of the symptoms that occur in this region.

Dog Skin Allergies

• The eye of a human being is also extremely prone to allergy. The allergy that occurs in this portion generally causes a lot of irritation and itching sensation. Its symptoms include redness of the eye and also itching of the conjunctiva.

• The airway is also prone to allergy and most of the allergy in this region is recognized by the following symptoms; sneezing, coughing, asthma attack, bronchoconstriction, wheezing, swelling of airway known as laryngeal edema, etc.

• In the ear region, the symptoms are feeling a sense of fullness, severe pain, impaired hearing. This impaired hearing generally happens due to eustachian tube drainage.

• Skin is yet another prominent area for the cause and presence of allergy. The allergy here is generally characterized by rashes like eczema, etc. Skin is the most prone to allergy and skin allergy is very common among people.

• Allergy also happens in the gastrointestinal tract. Here the symptoms include stomach pain, vomiting, etc.

Besides just being aware of these symptoms, you have got to have certain knowledge on how to treat these allergies as well. Knowing about symptoms is not enough; you have certainly got to know the cure for such disorders as well.

The Top Most Allergies Symptoms

Dog Skin Allergies

So You Want a Hypoallergenic Dog

Dog Skin Allergies

Well, technically, there is no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog. Contrary to popular belief, people are not allergic to a dog's hair or its dander but rather to a protein shed from the surface of the skin. Shedding spreads the protein and as a result causes an allergic reaction in some people. So, if a dog is low or non-shedding, it reduces the potential for an allergic reaction to this protein. (Saliva Allergies will react to any canine)

Dog Skin Allergies

So, how do you find a low to non-shedding, allergy friendly dog with the temperament of a companion dog and without the hunting instincts of a terrier? Well, that's the dilemma I found myself in when I wanted a third dog. My husband is already very allergic to the two retriever mixes we have, so there was no way I could add another shedding, allergy generating dog to our pack!

Dog Skin Allergies

I discovered that the answer to our problem was created 25 years ago in Australia and is call a Labradoodle! Labradoodles give allergy suffers a practical opportunity to finally own a dog. And Labradoodles are increasing in popularity, because they're very intelligent, playful, and depending on the Labradoodle - allergy-friendly dogs.

Dog Skin Allergies

Now let's begin with the Labradoodles fascinating history. Their story starts in Australia. Now the exact date when breeding began is still a question, however the current view among experts is sometime in 1988 or 1989. It all started with an inquiry from a visually impaired women in Hawaii, who wanted a guide dog that wouldn't cause her husband's allergies to flare.

The reason why she chose Australia was the countries quarantine laws. Because of their laws, dogs exported to Hawaii could go home with no quarantine.

Now in response to the women's request, roughly thirty Poodle hair and saliva samples were sent to Hawaii to test for allergy friendliness over a two year period of time. Unfortunately, none on those original samples tested successful.

Following the unfortunate failure of those samples, a man named Wally Conren suggested to the Manager of the Australian Guide Dog Association to cross a Labrador Retriever and a Standard Poodle. Approval was granted and his first litter produced three puppies. Wally gave the resulting cross the name we use today--Labradoodle.

Now from those three puppies, hair and saliva samples were sent to Hawaii for testing once again. And this time, the samples from a puppy named Sultan were successful!

After the success of the first mating, Mr. Conren bred Labradoodle to Labradoodle, and called the subsequent offspring, "Double Doodles." But he wasn't done, because next he crossed the Double Doodles and called the offspring "Tri Doodles." These were the forerunner to what we call today the Australian Multi-Generational (or Multi-Gen) Labradoodles.

Because of their unique coats, Labradoodles typically have no body odor, they don't require constant bathing, and rarely attract fleas - which is great for all types of owners.

Certain Labradoodles are proving to be ideal for asthma and allergy sufferers, as wool and most fleece coat Labradoodles rarely shed. Labradoodles who have a hair-textured coat will shed, so are less likely to be suitable for allergy sufferers.

The continually increasing popularity of Labradoodles and Goldendoodles (a golden retriever/poodle cross) today has encouraged a slew of backyard breeders to jump on the doodle band wagon. So in order to get a healthy, allergy friendly dog for your family, it's critical to find a reputable breeder. In my ebooks 'The Definitive Guide To Labradoodles' and 'The Definitive Guide To Goldendoodles' I give readers the tools they need to evaluate breeders and find the best possible puppy for their family!

So You Want a Hypoallergenic Dog

Dog Skin Allergies

Food Allergies That Dogs Have

Dog Skin Allergies

Food allergies make up about ten percent of all the allergies occurring in dogs and cats, coming in after inhalants and flea bites. Many people feel that diets based on lamb and rice are helping them treat or prevent allergies in their pets, but they may not be. We don't really understand how dogs become sensitive to particular foods or food ingredients. Fortunately, there are still plenty of things we do know. Let's look at the way we diagnose food allergies, how we treat them, and what the symptoms are.

Dog Skin Allergies

Unlike inhalant allergies, there isn't a strong link between a dog being a particular breed and developing particular allergies. Male and female animals are equally affected, and neutering seems to have no effect. Allergies can show up as young as five months of age, and as late as twelve, but most dogs show their symptoms between the ages of two and six. The majority of animals with allergies to foods will also have other allergic reactions as well.

Dog Skin Allergies

We do need to distinguish between real allergies and mere food intolerances. Food allergies involve skin problems and itching, while food intolerances tend to involve digestive issues and don't have a standard allergic response. Fortunately, the best way to treat both types of problem is to remove the food causing the allergy or insensitivity from the diet.

Dog Skin Allergies

There are a number of ingredients that are most likely to cause allergies, including dairy, wheat, corn, chicken, eggs, soy and beef. Of course, these are also the most common ingredients in dog food. The incidence of reactions is likely associated with exposure. Lamb and rice diets have been produced to attempt to combat allergies, but there is nothing special about those ingredients except that they are uncommon in pet foods. If lamb and rice become the most common ingredients, more dogs will have reactions to them.

Most allergies in dogs have the same symptom - itchy skin. Other symptoms that come up often include scratching, skin infections, hair loss and chronic ear infections. Dogs with allergies may also have more bowel movements than non allergic dogs. Unfortunately, the fact that most allergies appear the same means that it can be hard to tell what your dog is allergic to. If your pet has recurrent ear problems, has allergies year round, has moderate to severe skin problems or doesn't respond to steroid or antihistamine treatment, food allergies might be the culprit.

Once you've ruled out all other causes of allergy and have determined the problem is definitely food, it's time to do a food trial. The method used is to feed a new source of protein and carbohydrates for twelve weeks, using foods the animal has not eaten in the past. Venison and potato, rabbit and rice, and duck and rutabaga have all been used by people making homemade diets. There are some commercial diets, too.

The pet must eat nothing else for twelve weeks, even treats. If the symptoms disappear or are reduced, the next step is to try the old food again, to make sure they return. If this happens, a food allergy is confirmed. Blood tests and skin testing may also be performed, and once a positive diagnosis is made, you can then choose a new commercial diet or a homemade diet to prevent allergies from happening again. Specific ingredients can be tested one at a time till you find the perfect diet for your pet.

Food Allergies That Dogs Have

Dog Skin Allergies

Pet Allergies and Eczema Reactions to Household Animals

Dog Skin Allergies

As much as we love cats we can cuddle and cute puppies, unfortunately some people cannot be around them without a reaction. This can be due to the proteins of the pet that come out urine or saliva as well as reactions to pet hair and dander. The reactions can be skin rashes, sneezing and even severe breathing complications.

Dog Skin Allergies

If you have asthma you may have trouble being around a pet. If there is wheezing and respiratory difficulties, take this seriously. Allergic reactions can also occur with small animals like hamsters or pet birds. Eczema can have pink or red patches as well as clusters of bumps. Often one is not sure why they have a rash and looking at all environmental factors is important to do.

Dog Skin Allergies

When the body has excess histamines, there can be extreme itching as well as air passage inflammation. Just as hay fever is very frustrating, so are allergic reactions to pets. Kids in addition can get ear infections and other problems that are tied to respiration.

Dog Skin Allergies

If there is a history of allergic reactions in the family, be aware this can be a problem for your children. Not only can there be skin rashes and breathing problems, but it can result in insomnia and the heart may be faster. It isn't easy, but if your child has this issue, you'll need to check with classmates' parents about whether they have pets when you child tries to make plans. Your child should need be in that environment if they cannot tolerate pet hair and dander.

Pet Allergies and Eczema Reactions to Household Animals

Dog Skin Allergies

Chicken Soup Dog Food Causes Dog Food Allergies?

Dog Skin Allergies

When we picked up our eight week old chocolate lab from the breeder, she highly recommended Chicken Soup Dog Food (for the Puppy Lover's Soul). She said she had done some extensive research and found this food to be one of the best. We quickly found out that it wasn't available just anywhere, so we had to plan ahead getting this food because we couldn't get it from any of our local shops.

Dog Skin Allergies

Our puppy grew up eating Chicken Soup for the Puppy Lover's Soul. At the age of 11 months, we decided it was time to switch him over to Chicken Soup Dog Food for adult dogs. He had been doing great with the puppy food and to the best of our knowledge showed no signs of any problems. If there's one thing I can say, this dog has energy to spare. Part of that may have to do with the fact that he is a lab, but he seemed very healthy.

Dog Skin Allergies

After roughly 2 weeks on the adult food, we started to notice some hair loss around his eyes. He was also scratching and had small, reddish areas on his chest and legs. This was a concern and since he was soon going to the vet for his regular checkup, we decided to bring it to our vet's attention.

Dog Skin Allergies

The vet told us we could try an antihistamine to see if it would relieve some of the problems. It worked for a little while, but once we stopped giving him the antihistamine, the problem returned.

After talking with some friends, they recommended we speak with the owner of a specialty dog food store in the town next to ours. It was out of the way, but we decided to make the trip and talk to her. We walked in the door and she took a look at our dog and quickly asked what type of food we were feeding him. We told her that it was Chicken Soup Dog Food and she said that she really likes the food, but it was possible the dog was allergic to some the ingredients.

She recommended we try something a little different. She had a grain free food that was made by another manufacturer and she wanted us to try that for 6 to 8 weeks to see if his condition improved.

I'm very happy to say that after being on the food for a couple of months he's doing much better. The hair loss around his eyes is gone, and so are the red spots on his chest and legs.

In my opinion chicken soup dog food is still a good food for dogs. However, if you have a dog with allergies this may not be a good choice. There are several options for grain free foods that are comparably priced.

Chicken Soup Dog Food Causes Dog Food Allergies?

Dog Skin Allergies

Essential Ways to Alleviate Dog Allergy Symptoms Uncovered!

Dog Skin Allergies

Dogs are without a doubt man's best friend. But can you still perceive them as one of your best friends if they can bring you allergies? You would definitely curse each dog that you see once you are already afflicted with a dog allergy. This is simply because of the fact that having allergies is a difficult thing to cope with. In fact, it can affect not only your physical well-being but your social life and your relationship with your dog as well. And there will probably come a time when you need to decide whether to keep or abandon your dear dogs.

Dog Skin Allergies

Abandoning your dogs is actually not the most exceptional solution to get rid of your allergies. Instead, the very best thing which you can do in order to cope with your present condition is to look for essential ways on how to at least alleviate the symptoms of your dog allergy. And some of these ways are as follows:

Dog Skin Allergies

o Groom and bathe your dogs regularly. This is imperative to somehow lessen the amount of pet allergens present in your dogs or in the air. You can actually do your dog grooming and bathing at least once a week. You just have to make sure to do it with the use of a dust-filtering mask and gloves to curb allergy symptoms.

Dog Skin Allergies

o Keep your home and dog areas clean. You can essentially include this task in your everyday household chores. You can use vacuum with allergy filtration in cleaning your entire home to easily remove all the dust particles present in your home specifically in your dog areas.

o Use HEPA air purifier in your home. This is vital in order to absolutely remove all dust particles and dander or allergens from the air within your home. You can in fact purchase such air purifier in any home improvement and department stores in your area. You just have to purchase the best one possible to take full advantage of it.

Indeed, there are several ways on how you can alleviate the symptoms of your dog allergy. Most of these ways especially the ones which have been stated above are just so simple to do and so, you can be certain that you can easily get rid of your allergy without the need to abandon your dear dogs. After all, you definitely do not want to lose a best friend just because of your unnerving allergy.

Essential Ways to Alleviate Dog Allergy Symptoms Uncovered!

Dog Skin Allergies

Allergy Symptoms and How to Heal Them Naturally

Dog Skin Allergies

Allergy symptoms vary from person to person (and animal to animal), but tend to fall into a few categories. One group of people will tend to express their allergies through their skin. Various eruptions will appear on any part of your body. These are unique to you, in both the area affected and the type of eruption.

Dog Skin Allergies

Another group of people will express their allergy symptoms through watery discharge of the upper respiratory tract. Symptoms might include those typical of hay fever - streaming eyes, sore eyes, red eyes, itchy eyes, streaming nose, itchy palate, itchy throat, itchy nose, sneezing, etc.

Dog Skin Allergies

And yet another group of people may express their allergy symptoms through their stomach, with indigestion, gas and diarrhea.

Dog Skin Allergies

Whatever the area affected, it is showing you your weakness. But at the core of the problem is your immune system. It's struggling really hard and not making much headway. It's badly compromised.

This is at the heart of every single disease under the sun. The expression of the disease (ie your symptoms) indicate your area of weakness, but the fact that you have the allergy or disease in the first place is because your immune system is compromised.

If you have a good, healthy immune system, your body will heal everything. You won't even be aware that there is a problem.

So how do you restore your immune system to its former glory? Generally this is a life transformation. There is no easy fix, no magic bullet. But if you start now, it can only improve.

Things that stop your immune system working are:

eating unhealthy food (fast, junk, processed, dairy, too much meat, preservatives, colours and so on) taking medicine on a regular basis having vaccines not getting exposed to enough sun not taking regular exercise drinking too much alcohol

But by far the most important aspect is how you think. If you think negatively, get frightened easily, get angry often or suppress your feelings regularly, your immune system will be badly affected.

Those people who are at peace with themselves don't have compromised immune systems. And they don't get sick very often.

So instead of thinking someone else, other than you, can fix your allergy symptoms, try thinking that you are responsible for your health. It could be the start of a profound journey for you. 

Allergy Symptoms and How to Heal Them Naturally

Dog Skin Allergies

Allergies in Dogs

Dog Skin Allergies

Allergies are one of the most common complaints among dog owners. Truly, not too many puppies have allergies their first year but many are already becoming sensitized to things in their environment. If your puppy already shows signs of allergies, and some do, don't hesitate to get it treated. You may head off a lifetime of trouble if you get a handle on it early. Allergies get worse every year if left untreated.

Dog Skin Allergies

Allergies usually materialize in the form of small skin eruptions, rashes, hair loss, itching, moist or oozing dermatitis, and ear infections. Dogs will over wash themselves, chew, scratch, and rub to alleviate the sensations which in turn makes them worse.

Dog Skin Allergies

HOW ALLERGIES DEVELOP

Dog Skin Allergies

Allergies are such that your dog may be exposed to a pathogen one year and show no outward signs of ailment...this time. Next time he comes in contact, it will create a reaction, maybe small at first, but each time he is getting more sensitized and each time the reaction will be a little, or a lot worse. We often hear owners saying, "he never had this problem before". Yeah, we know, that's how it works.

Dogs can develop allergies to any number of things such as grass, trees, shrubs, dust mites, molds, and most commonly...fleas. If your dog has an allergy to something, it will take very little to set of a histamine reaction in his body. Dogs are most commonly allergic to things their skin touches rather than something they inhale. They may be allergic to pollen but it is usually a contact problem, not an inhalant one like with people.

MOST COMMON CAUSE

Fleas are the most common cause of allergies by far. You may not even think your dog has fleas but it could only take one bite to set him off. One of the most important things you can do is protect him against fleas. Protect him aggressively and often. There are excellent products on the market now such as Advantage, Frontline, Revolution, and Sentinel. A couple of these require simple blood tests before they can be used because they also protect against heartworms. You must always make sure your dog is not infected before starting on heartworm medication.

TREATING FOR FLEAS

It is also vital that you treat not only your pet but also his environment as best you can. Fleas can live anywhere. They reside quite nicely in your yard, grass, sand, dirt, carpet, bedding and anywhere else you can think of. And the are resilient. Persistence is a must. One study showed fleas that were found in Arctic Turns nests which were thawed out and found to be still viable after having been frozen for a long time.

The fleas life cycle must be broken to gain any sort of advantage at depleting their population. Treat the house, the yard, and your pets. Make sure you use products that are safe for all your pets. Cats and other small animals can be very sensitive to toxins. Please NEVER use over the counter products unless they are recommended by your veterinarian. Many of the products sold in stores are very dangerous and can be deadly, especially to cats.

TREATING THE ALLERGY

There are many ways to treat your dog if he develops allergies. If it is not too bad you may only have minor flare ups in the summer which can be treated with oatmeal baths and antihistamines. The dogs who really suffer often require year round treatment, or at least aggressive treatment through their sensitive times of the year. A regimen may include injections of steroids, antihistamine and steroid tablets, a special diet, flea products, and frequent soothing baths.

FOOD ALLERGIES

Less that 10% of dogs who have allergies are allergic to what they eat. We often make that leap on our own because there are so many allergies with the human population. Not so with your dog. While it is quite possible. It is not usually the best place to start looking for solutions. Many dog food companies have created diets for those dogs who are sensitive to their diets however. Hills and Nature's Recipe are among the leaders. They make a variety of foods with ingredients that your dog won't have come in contact with. They may include venison, duck, whitefish, lamb, rice and potato.

The trick to ruling out a food allergy is to eliminate everything else they may put in their mouths and it will take up to 60 days to clear everything from their system. You must only change their diet but also eliminate treats unless they are just hand outs of the same biscuits he gets at meals. You must have him eat from stainless bowls. You must remove any chew toys, like rawhides, and cows hooves. This sounds easy but it must be maintained without hesitation or fail or else it will all be for not. Any contact will set you back to the beginning.

ENVIRONMENTAL ALLERGIES

Dogs and usually allergic to more than one antigen. Most will react to varying degrees to a number of different things the come in contact with. While dogs are often allergic to pollens, it is not usually due to inhalation, but due to contact with the skin. If your dog has a severe sensitivity to grass for instance, you may need to wash off his feet every time he comes in from outside. Even just rinsing them will help prevent further involvement. He may need baths several times a week but only with specific types of treatments and direction from the veterinarian. The wrong things could aggravate instead of help the problem.

Dog allergies usually come in the form of dermatitis, some form of skin inflamation, itching, redness, hair loss, scratching, oozing, and ear infections. The animals are truly miserable and inconsolable. If you can get by with a few treatments in a season you should consider yourself lucky as allergies go. If you have a dog who is sensitive to something all year or hyper sensitive at certain times of the year you may need to explore allergy testing and injections.

ALLERGY TESTING

Allergy testing is the best way to determine what exactly you are battling and how best to handle it. The tests are done either in the form of skin testing where part of the dog is shaved and tiny amounts of possible allergens are injected under or applied to the skin to see what he might react to. The areas are checked regularly for signs of reaction. Another is a blood test where the dogs blood is drawn and sent to a special laboratory who just does this type of blood work. The results can take a week or two but the answers come without further insult to the dogs skin.

An blood test will tell you not only what they are allergic to, but HOW allergic they are. It will show a titer, or a number out of normal range to help you and the vet understand how severe it is. The test will cover 20 or more different possible pathogens which are prominent in your part of the country and test the blood to all of them. You can also test for food allergies this way.

One other benefit of blood testing is that you have not only the vet and his experience but you also have the laboratory to help guide him with their vast and focused expertise. The labs will guide you through the many types of treatments that may be done at home and by the vet.

ANTIGEN THERAPY

Once the blood work has determined what the dog is allergic to, the lab can make an antigen therapy which the dog will undergo to begin de-sensitizing him. The antigen vial will contain an injectable and sterile form of what the dog is allergic to. Tiny amounts are injected under the skin and regular intervals and strengths to allow the dogs body to start to build a tolerance to it. This can take months and may have to be done every so often to maintain the effect but it is the most promising form of treatment.

If your dog has severe allergies you and your vet will become well acquainted so make sure you and your dog are comfortable with them and their office. Allergies can be expensive, infuriating, frustrating, and time consuming but they can almost always be alleviated.

Allergies in Dogs

Dog Skin Allergies

Understanding Why Dogs Fight With Each Other

Dog Skin Allergies

When two canines in the same household have a dispute, owners are often quick to break them apart. The motivation to do so is instinctive. After all, fighting suggests injury and no owner wants to see their dogs hurt. Unfortunately, breaking them apart can cause more problems and inhibit their ability to completely resolve issues within the "pack."

Dog Skin Allergies

Below, we'll explain a few of the most common reasons dogs fight amongst themselves. Once you understand the motivations behind their disputes, you'll be better able to control the environment in a manner that doesn't completely disrupt their interaction.

Dog Skin Allergies

A Struggle For Status

Dog Skin Allergies

Canines are pack animals and like all pack animals, there is a social structure within their group (even if that "group" only numbers two). The pooch at the top of that structure has the highest status until someone lower in the hierarchy challenges him. When challenged, the dominant canine will either concede his status or accept the challenge by fighting. This struggle for status within the hierarchy is common, especially if multiple dogs live under one roof and enjoy near equal positions within the "pack's" internal structure.

Fighting is often triggered when a new pooch is introduced to the group. Even if he does not issue a challenge for authority and dominance, he may initially be seen as a threat. Another circumstance that can lead to a dispute is when a canine is brought back into the group after having spent a long period of time elsewhere. Positioning to regain status - or protect it - ensues.

When The Owner Shows Favoritism

Owners unwittingly exacerbate internal disputes when they intervene in the fighting. The reason is because that intervention is often perceived as favoritism to a lower-status canine. If a dispute takes place and the owner protects the dog with the lower rank from the higher ranked pooch, the intervention can imply an artificial social status. In doing so, it can impact the existing hierarchy leading to even more fighting when the owner is present.

Steps To Eliminate The Fighting

If you own dogs that fight with each other, it's important that you carefully identify the dominant pooch. The reason is because you need to reinforce the existing social structure. Because access to food, water, and other resources is an important barometer of status with the pack hierarchy, give the dominant pooch first access. That will reduce challenges to authority. To accurately identify dominance, consider their age, dispositions, health, and interaction with each other.

If a dispute happens over access to food, toys, or other items, remove the lower status canine from the environment and give the higher ranked dog access. That sends a clear message that the existing hierarchy has your approval.

Canines fight in order to protect or establish their status within their group. Give them room to resolve matters quickly. If they cannot resolve them, support the existing structure.

Understanding Why Dogs Fight With Each Other

Dog Skin Allergies

A Brief Look at Pet Skin Problems

Dog Skin Allergies

The skin is an interesting organ of the body. While there is no doubt
that it is a complex physical and physiological structure, we need to
remember a few basic factors when dealing with skin problems in pets.

Dog Skin Allergies

1) The skin can only respond in a limited number of ways to a vast
array of challenges. Thus few clinical signs concerning
skin can be attributed to a single cause.

Dog Skin Allergies

2) Many skin problems are multi-factorial. So again, the clinical picture
you and the vet see can rarely be ascribed to a single cause.

Dog Skin Allergies

3) The above two points mean that it is often very difficult to make a
quick, definitive diagnosis in skin cases.

4) The longer a skin condition exists before it is investigated,

the less likely it is to be satisfactorily resolved.This is because
over time, other factors are likely to come into play and complicate the
picture and the diagnostic process.

5) Skin takes a long-ish time to repair and heal. Thus the efficacy of
any treatment can normally only be judged over a period of weeks or even months.

6) Skin problems that start off occurring seasonally (typically summer)

are usually linked to an allergy. However, not all allergies need start off
with a seasonal pattern of occurrence.

7) In cats and dogs, the skin is typically the "target" organ for allergies. Thus
almost all types of allergies can manifest clinically as an itchy skin.

8) Often one has to settle for managing a skin problem rather than curing it. This
is particularly true of allergies where one cannot identify the offending allergen(s).

The cause of most skin problems will fit into one or more of the following broad categories:

1) Congenital (i.e. born with the problem)/ Hereditary

2) Allergies

3) External Parasites

4) Hormonal Imbalance/Diet imbalance

5) Infectious organism(s)

6) Growths

7) Immune Mediated

The biggest mistake any pet owner can make is to make assumptions about the cause of a skin problem. Treat each case as unique and you will avoid many of the pitfalls that lead pet owners on long, often expensive, and frequently fruitless journeys to nowhere.

A Brief Look at Pet Skin Problems

Dog Skin Allergies

The Effects of Ringworm on Dogs

Dog Skin Allergies

Ringworms are a common summer disease for people. It is so common that about 20% of the population will be infected within their lives. What most of them don't know is that they can get it from their dogs.

Dog Skin Allergies

Dogs are smart animals. They are also irrepressibly curious. If you observe your dog for just a couple of hours, you will see that they like to go digging in places and exploring new things. They explore more places than we do, and are more likely to catch diseases there.

Dog Skin Allergies

There are three ringworm-causing fungi that can infect your dog. The Microsporum Canis is actually more common in domestic cats (causing about 98% of all cat infections) but can be transferred to dogs and humans. Rodents can be infected with Trichophyton Mentagrophytes and spread it to rabbits, horses, and dogs. If your dog likes to dig in soil, they can catch a soil organism called Microsporum Gypseum, which can also spread to cats, horses, rodents, cattle and swine.

Dog Skin Allergies

A ringworm-infected dog may or may not have symptoms. Ringworm live on keratin, which is a substance found in nails, skin and hair. It can live inside the hair shafts and cause the dog's fur to break. It can also create a ring-like bald spot. In some cases, rashes similar to those of humans may appear. These are circular, with red, raised edges and seemingly healthy skin in the middle. The rashes are often itchy and can start growing in time. If a dog does not display any symptoms, they can still spread the fungal infection to other animals or people.

If you suspect that there is ringworm in your dog, you should take them to the veterinarian immediately. Once there, the doctor can conduct several tests to ensure that it is a ringworm infection.

The vet can shine an ultraviolet light on the dog's skin in a Woods Test. This can help if the infection is caused by some species of the Microsporum Canis. These fungi leave an apple-green fluorescence on the hair shafts of the animal.

A Microscopic test can also be done, wherein the vet takes hairs from the dog and places them under the microscope. This can be good for determining about 40 to 70% of ringworm infections.

If your vet wants to determine the kind of species that have infected your dog, a Culture test can be done. Samples can be collected from the dog's hairs and uses them to make a culture.

Once it has been determine that there is ringworm in your dog, you should segregate the animal immediately. You should also separate its cage, bedding, dishes and toys from people and other animals. A bleach solution should be used to clean the household, especially where the dog frequently stays. The cage should also be washed with the bleach solution.

The treatment is often a fungal soap, oral medication, and topical creams with Terbinafine, Itraconzole or Fluconazole. A twice a week lime sulfur dip should also be used to bathe the animal.

It is also important to remove all dog hairs from the house. Fungal spores are known to die easily if they in cool, dry spaces. But they can live for 1 to 2 years in the stray hairs of dogs. Use a vacuum to go over all the areas. After you are sure all the hairs have been removed, dispose of the hairs with the vacuum cleaner bag used for the job.

It may take some time to complete treatment for the dog. It can take two to four weeks, as it does in humans. But to increase the efficacy of the treatment, you should cut your pet's hair shorter. This allows the topical treatment and the dip to be absorbed directly on the skin. It also gives the fungus less room to hide. But don't shave the hair off, because it can cause nicks that can help ringworm thrive.

The Effects of Ringworm on Dogs

Dog Skin Allergies

Small Dog Collars

Dog Skin Allergies

Dog collars are the most common treat for dogs. Most dog owners love giving their best friend a beautiful dog collar to delight their furry buddy.

Dog Skin Allergies

Dog collars have to be very comfortable. The dog has to feel at ease with the collar around its neck at all times. Most pet owners do not give too much importance to the kind of collar and go for a common one that is believed to fit all dogs. But in most cases, this is not really true. Different breeds of dogs have different neck sizes. The collar has to fit the neck perfectly, with enough breathing space for the dog.

Dog Skin Allergies

Dog collars are available in different sizes: small (10-14""), small plus (14-16""), medium (16-18""), large (20-22"") and extra large (22-24""). Small collars are for smaller breeds of dogs, including Maltese, pomeranians, miniature pinschers, beagles, Jack Russells, shelties and papillons. While measuring the dog's neck for the collar, place two fingers between the neck and the tape. Also ensure that the tape is kept loosely around the neck. The collar is likely to rest a few inches below the head, but it is better to add a couple of inches to the measurement. If the length is between two sizes, choose the bigger collar. Select a bigger collar if the dog is still growing.

Dog Skin Allergies

Dog collars are believed to reflect the dog's personality. They may even show the owner's personality. Dog collars are now available in unique designs which range from "cute" to "designer". Some of the different kinds of dog collars are handmade collars, leather collars, washable collars, cotton collars, metallic collars, glitzy collars, spiked collars, colored collars, plush suede collars, and so on.

The most common designs are flowers, baseball, rainbow, batik, rhinestone, collars with letters, flamingoes, polka dots, mink, Halloween, Hawaiian, patriotic, and several more. Other special kinds of small dog collars are adjustable collars, washable collars, training collars, no-bark collars, reflective collars, electric collars, waterproof collars, talking collars and others. Prices of these collars start at as low as and can go up to 0 or more, depending on the kind of collar and the material used. There are also many providers of personalized collars for small dogs.

Small Dog Collars

Dog Skin Allergies

Steroids For Dogs - Tips & Cautions For Quick Relief of Allergy Symptoms

Dog Skin Allergies

Steroids for dogs: In the control of intense allergy symptoms, anti-inflammatory steroids provide highly effective relief of inflammation and swelling. They are most often used for a short period of time while testing is performed and other means of control of the symptoms of dog allergies is put into place.

Dog Skin Allergies

Anti-inflammatory steroids are usually prescribed orally and initially given at a starting dose, with subsequent doses tapered until discontinued. A dog steroid should never be stopped abruptly or before the completion of the entire series of doses is given as prescribed by your veterinarian. This is because tapering the drug correctly is necessary in order to prevent a possible deficit of adrenaline in the dog's body.

Dog Skin Allergies

Be aware that canine steroids are also used for other medical conditions other than the allergies that dogs have, these include inflammation of the brain, spine, stomach, and intestines, as well as arthritis and immune mediated diseases.

Dog Skin Allergies

In dog allergy treatment, canine steroids are considered the most problematic of canine medications because of the side effects of both short term and long term steroid use. However, this should not dissuade you from the use of a canine steroid because there are instances when a canine steroid is the only medication capable of bringing quick control of the severe symptoms of dog allergies.

Although intended for short-term use, there are situations when a dog steroid must be used on a continuing or on-going basis. However, when possible they should be used only for short-term treatment for dog allergies, or other conditions as determined by your family veterinarian.

Side effects from anti-inflammatory steroids in dogs are more numerous than in cats. The most common are a drastic increased in appetite and continuous thrust, with the resulting frequent urination and unexpected weight gain. Other side effects include mood swings, which can be disconcerting, and panting. Long term steroid use can cause skin lesions and very serious changes inside the body, most notably Cushing's Disease. With long term steroid use these internal changes can shorten the dog's life span.

Nevertheless, anti-inflammatory steroids are one of the most important and highly effective canine medications used today. When needed, canine steroids are efficient in controlling inflammation and swelling, allowing relief from symptoms, and allowing time for blood tests, lab work, allergy skin testing, and for determining and implementing a course of treatment most suitable to your dog.

Steroids For Dogs - Tips & Cautions For Quick Relief of Allergy Symptoms

Dog Skin Allergies

Selecting a Dog

Dog Skin Allergies

Just because a puppy is cute doesn't mean it is going to be right for your family. When selecting a dog, make sure you not only base it on a puppy's cuteness, there are many more things to consider when selecting a dog who will fit in to your home

Dog Skin Allergies

Be careful of getting too attached to a puppy you just met. If you want to do the right thing for your home, you will take your time and research whether the breed of the puppy and its health are good. This way, you know you, your family, and your new dog will spend many years together.

Dog Skin Allergies

If you end up buying a puppy who has a genetic history of getting sick and dying easily, you might be in for a heartbreak. To avoid this, there are signs you can look out for when going out to look for a puppy.

Dog Skin Allergies

Not to say that a dog might not die before its time. After all, everything and everyone dies. But it helps of a dogs genetics will guarantee it a longer life to share with your family.

Not only should you be concerned about the genetics of your dog, you also want to select a breed that suits your and your family's lifestyle.

To select the breed of your dog, think of the available space you have in your home as well as the activities you and your dog will be sharing. Perhaps even the amount of time spent in grooming your dog can affect your choice.

After deciding on the breed, observe the puppy's personality. Avoid aggressive and unfriendly puppies. A happy, gentle puppy is best if you have any children. Shy and slow puppies might be in an indication of their future personality.

These are just a few precautions you can take when selecting a puppy. Though you might be tempted to let your emotions get the best of you when you meet a puppy, remind yourself that finding the best dog is a gift you and your family will appreciate for years to come.

Selecting a Dog

Dog Skin Allergies

How To Prevent And Treat Your Jack Russell's Dog Dandruff

Dog Skin Allergies

Your beloved Jack Russell terrier jumps up on to your lap. Then as you start to pet it and scratch it behind its ears like you always do, you look down and to horrors of horrors, its fur is filled with white flakes which has also sprinkled down on to your lap and chair. Dog dandruff is common but fortunately it can be easily treated.

Dog Skin Allergies

Your terrier gets dandruff in exactly same manner as we humans do. The reason is that our skin is always in the process of replacing itself and the dead skin falls off as flakes. However the biggest difference between your terrier with visible dandruff and one you never notice is the size and frequency of the flakes.

Dog Skin Allergies

To understand this better, consider the skin on your own legs or arms for a moment. Notice that when your skin is moist and well cared for, it looks smooth and feels soft. However when it is dry, it begins to look whitish and sometimes looks a little bit scaly. It also leaves behind white marks if you scratch it lightly.

Dog Skin Allergies

Your Jack Russell's skin is no different. When your terrier's skin becomes too dry, it starts to flake in larger sizes. Hence it is easier to come off and suddenly you find that your Jack Russell terrier is snowing on your lap.

There are many ways to treat your dog's dandruff and on the contrary, dog dandruff shampoo may not be the most effective way to treat your terrier's dandruff. You may only want to use dog shampoo after exhausting the other options.

How to prevent your Jack Russell terrier from getting dandruff
1. The first thing you should consider is your Jack Russell terrier's diet. If it generally consists of dry dog food and water then your Jack Russell terrier may probably not be getting enough fats in his diet. Your Jack Russell terrier's skin is flaky because it does not produce enough natural moisturizer. If this is the case, you can try adding some canned dog food to his diet and see if the problem will go away. You could also try adding vitamin E oil in its diet as this may help.

2. There are dog supplements available on the market with dietary essentials for your Jack Russell terrier's diet regime. These supplements generally consist of fatty acids that can help to stop dog dandruff and maintain your Jack Russell terrier's coat so it is vibrant and lovely.

3. Reduce the amount of bathing for your Jack Russell terrier. I had a friend who once gave her Jack Russell so frequent baths that they washed away the skin oils which kept her terrier's skin moist. When I recommended that she reduce the bath frequency, the dandruff problem went away. It all comes down to how much protective oil your Jack Russell terrier has on its skin.

How to treat your Jack Russell terrier's dandruff
1. Incorporate the dieting advice first. A lot of times, dandruff in your Jack Russell terrier is due to dietary problems.

2. Apply either baby shampoo or an oatmeal wash. Given that your Jack Russell terrier dandruff is triggered by an absence of the natural oils that are supposed to be on their pores and skin, you have to ensure that you do not worsen the problem by utilizing a nasty shampoo that can further remove those precious skin oils. If neither of those is effective, buy a dog shampoo that's produced for sensitive skin or dandruff.

3. If you choose to use a dog dandruff shampoo, pay very careful attention to the directions. Most dog dandruff shampoos have a recommendation on how often you should use them. Some should be used only once a week while some milder ones let you it a little bit more frequently. Do note that while dog dandruff shampoos contain medications to help cure and prevent the dandruff, they should not be used too often as sometimes they can cause irritation to your dog.

4. Avoid trying your own shampoos to attempt to remedy dog dandruff. While dandruff is similar, your dog's fur and your hair are quite different. Use only dog shampoos that are designed to keep their fur clean without overly stripping it or damaging their underlying skin.

If dandruff still persists, you should go to the veterinarian or animal care specialist. Your Jack Russell terrier's coat and skin wellness usually gives you a good idea of his overall health. A dandruff condition that won't go away after you have taken the steps to treat it usually points to the possibility that your terrier may have a serious health problems that has to be addressed and remedied by a professional vet.

How To Prevent And Treat Your Jack Russell's Dog Dandruff

Dog Skin Allergies

My Dog is Sneezing a Lot - How Do I Stop Dog Sneezing Quickly?

Dog Skin Allergies

"My dog is sneezing a lot. I don't have the time or money for an expensive Veterinarian trip, but I want to help my canine companion. Is there some way to stop dog sneezing quickly and safely without breaking the bank?"

Dog Skin Allergies

Is this going through your mind lately? Your best friend is sneezing, and he seems to be sneezing more frequently.

Dog Skin Allergies

At first you thought your pet just caught some dust in his inquisitive nose, but it seems to have morphed into something worse. You love your pet and want nothing more than to heal him quickly and safely, so what are your options?

Dog Skin Allergies

When your dog is sneezing a lot, as opposed to a few singular sneezes, there is a sign of something more serious. At first, your dog probably just caught some local irritant that got lodged in his nasal passage and got him sneezing.

The problem is that every time your pet sneezes, he makes his nasal passages weaker and raw. In this weakened state, bacterial infection can move in, attack his respiratory system, and leave you with a costly, dangerous infection.

When you long to stop dog sneezing and your dog's misery, you can trundle up your beloved pet and take off for the vet. However, there are several negatives to remember.

1 - Vets are basically playing a "let's try this and see if it works" game. Maybe it will, maybe it will not. Then it is back to the vet if it doesn't.

2 - There is always the possibility of side-effects from the drugs used, and you may have to make subsequent trips. Never mind the costly bills and the frustration for both you and your sneezing dog.

3 - You also have to fight your dog every day you are trying to get him to take his medicine. This isn't the best case scenario when you are trying to stop dog sneezing.

There is a natural, safe, inexpensive alternative that you can apply in the safety of your home in a few seconds however. Natural homeopathic pet cures use leaves, herbs, plants and substances found naturally occurring to treat all your pet's maladies.

Homeopathy is the practice of "like curing like". A small, concentrated amount of a natural illness-causing substance is introduced to your pet's immune system. Your dog's inner defenses immediately notice the intruder, and his immune system cranks up, arming him like a Sherman tank.

A wonderful by-product of this all-natural treatment to stop dog sneezing is improved overall health for your pet. No side-effects, ten second application at home, no vets, no shots and fast-acting relief. Natural homeopathic pet remedies are the way to go when you are trying to stop dog sneezing.

My Dog is Sneezing a Lot - How Do I Stop Dog Sneezing Quickly?

Dog Skin Allergies

Keeping Your Dog's Ears Healthy- Does Your Dog Have an Ear Infection?

Dog Skin Allergies

Does your dog shake his or her head excessively and seem like he or she is in pain? Can you detect a distinct and unusual odor emanating from your dog's ear? Then take a closer look and inspect your dog for an ear infection. If the inspection of your dog's ear results in you seeing that his or her ear canal seems irritated and red with some discharge then go to the vet and have your dog's ear infection checked and treated.

Dog Skin Allergies

You should never try to treat your dog's ear infection by yourself. Do not delude yourself into thinking that you don't need professional opinion because ear infections in dogs are more complicated than you may think. If ear mites cause your dog's ear infection then it may not be that complicated to cure. However if your dog has many allergies, chances are, his or her ear infection is a complicated matter that needs a synergy of different procedures to treat.

Dog Skin Allergies

Unfortunately for man's best friend, ear infections in dogs are quite common because a favorable environment is provided by their anatomy and physiology. For one thing, their long and deep ear canals provide more area for infection. Their ears also have mast cells that produce histamines that give off an allergic reaction to certain stimuli, which in turn irritate the inside of your dog's ear. Ear infection in dogs often start with the mast cells irritating the ear canal into producing unusual amounts of ear wax.

Dog Skin Allergies

Unchecked, the ear wax will continue to build up until bacteria sets in to the irritated skin. You will notice that ear infections in dogs are more common among those with ear flaps because the appendage keeps the ear canal at temperatures that allow bacteria to thrive. The problem further progresses when yeast results from the bacterial infection in your dog's ear. Before you know it. A whole new symbiotic life system is thriving in your dog's ears.

Ear infections in dogs must be treated, not only because it causes discomfort and makes your dog smell, but because it can seriously damage your dog's ears. Because of the potentially complex nature of ear infections in dogs, it is very important that you get a reliable veterinary doctor that can properly diagnose and pinpoint the cause of the ear infection. Being able to accurately diagnose the cause will inadvertently allow for the proper treatment.

As mentioned earlier, ear infections in dogs can be caused by chronic allergies. If this happens to be the source of your dog's ear infection, you will need to find out what your dog may be allergic to. It can be one or many things and you will need to find each one out in order to prevent further allergic reactions from your dog.

At the same time, you will need to have your dog's ear cleaned and treated with topical and oral medication. I bring this all to your attention to underscore the importance of a good exam and probably some lab work to try to narrow down all the possible causes. Your vet will want to have a good look down the ear canal. It may be necessary to sedate your pet in order to clean out the ear well enough to get a good look. Or maybe he or she will have you come back after a few days of treatment to look again when hopefully the ear will be improved. When it comes to ear infections in dogs, you may also need to check and count your dog's diet as a possible source of allergy.

Keeping Your Dog's Ears Healthy- Does Your Dog Have an Ear Infection?

Dog Skin Allergies

Skin Diseases In Labrador Retrievers

Dog Skin Allergies

Same with humans, Labrador Retrievers and other breed of dog can be affected with different types of skin problems. These skin problems vary depending on the allergen and how it affects your beloved canine friend.

Dog Skin Allergies

Inhalant Allergy

Dog Skin Allergies

Inhalant allergy, also referred to as atopy is the most common type of allergy. This allergy is caused by things such as tree pollens, grass pollens, weed pollens, molds, dust mites and chemicals- the same things that cause allergy to humans. Inhalant allergy may present itself in the form of scratching, biting, chewing at feet and constant licking which may lead to irritation and later infection.

Dog Skin Allergies

Atopy is life-long condition and there is no known cure for this disease. However, there are ways to manage the problem:

- Anti-itch therapy. Anti-itch therapy includes the use of drugs, hypoallergenic shampoos and conditioners. Frequent bathing provides temporary relief from itching and reduces the amount of antigen exposure.

- Anti-inflammatory drugs. Anti-inflammatory drugs such as steroids may be given to block the allergic reaction. Antihistamines and fatty acids can also be given to your dog to lessen the allergic reaction.

- Removing the sources. As much as possible, remove the sources of the allergy from the environment. If you know that your dog is allergic to weed pollens, it is best to avoid that substance.

Food Allergy

Labrador Retrievers are prone to food allergy being dogs with hearty appetite, eating digestible and non-food alike. Dogs are usually sensitive to fish, eggs, chicken, pork, chemical preservatives and artificial sugars. Symptoms of food allergies in dogs include scratching at ears, shaking of the head, licking and biting their back legs, inflammation in the ears and in some cases, coughing, vomiting, sneezing and diarrhea.

To treat food allergy, carefully monitor your dog's diet. Take note what food triggers the allergy.

Flea Allergy

Flea allergy dermatitis, also called flea bite hypersensitivity is a type of skin disease caused by flea saliva. Dogs with flea allergy chew and bite their backs, legs, bellies or tails. One bite of flea can cause flea allergy that could last for up to five to seven days.

Flea control program must be taken to help your dog with this problem. But be careful in using strong chemicals for it can cause seizures and skin problems.

Bacterial Allergy

bacterial allergy, also referred to as pyoderma is caused by bacteria called Staphylococcus. The bacteria is not threatening to the dog as long as its immune system functions perfectly. However, the problem starts if your dog's immune system gets weak. Once allergy developed, red blotches, formation of pus pustules and hair loss can be seen.

Skin Diseases In Labrador Retrievers

Dog Skin Allergies

Coconut Oil - The Best Home Remedy For a Dog's Dry Flaky Skin

Dog Skin Allergies

Do you have a dog with dry skin and you are looking for a home remedy that will cure your dogs dry itchy flaky skin?

Dog Skin Allergies

The answer is found in a very simple product. Coconut oil. Do you know that this oil is one of the best home remedy for a dogs dry flaky skin. The benefits of coconut oil are just now being discovered and one of the properties of coconut oil is the ability for it to penetrate deep inside the dermal layer of the skin and make the skin supple. It also acts to reduce itching.

Dog Skin Allergies

This is tropical oil is safe for consumption for both humans and dogs. It is a perfect natural skin care product that relieves dry skin conditions. This is why I highly recommend this oil, it is great for such skin conditions like the one your dog is having.

Dog Skin Allergies

There are two ways to use the coconut oil. The first method is to apply it liberally on the skin of the dog. Scoop a good amount on your hands and rub it in on the dogs dry skin. You can do this two or three times a day depending on the level of dryness. If the dogs leaks it there is no cause for alarm since it works internally too.

This oil will do two things. It will stop the itching and it will also relieve the dryness of the dogs skin. This is a natural product that has no side effect and can be used on all the living things in your house.

The other way to use this rich oil is to give the dog one tablespoon of the oil. Dogs love this oil, it works from the inside of the dog. You can also add it into dogs food. Make sure you do not feed a lot of the oil to the dogs to make them uncomfortable, just give one tablespoon or half a tablespoon of coconut oil once a day.

Whatever method you try to use to relive your dogs dry itchy skin make sure you do add this oil. It is cheap and can be used for many other ways including cooking and human skin care.

Coconut oil is not heavy and will not clog pores on the dogs skin, it is easily absorbed in the skin and will even help make the hairs shiny in addition to curing a dog's dry itchy flaky skin.

Coconut Oil - The Best Home Remedy For a Dog's Dry Flaky Skin

Dog Skin Allergies

Why Do Dogs Lick Other Dogs?

Dog Skin Allergies

Nature is truly amazing! It has given female dogs the instinct to protect and to keep the puppies clean, and this is done by their long tongues. Licking is picked up by dogs from birth. Mama dog licks the puppies to remove the smell that would attract predators. By licking the newborn puppies the mother dog cleans the puppies and also gets the nutrients from the placenta. Have you noticed how the mother dog would lick the puppies while nursing? She is taking advantage of the immobility of the puppies to lick them clean. Licking is done to show maternal affection. The dogs tongue serves as the very personal baby wipes that not only cleans the bottom but also stimulates the pups to relieve themselves.

Dog Skin Allergies

In older dogs licking has a different purpose. Licking can be a greeting ceremony that can be done when the dogs wake up in the morning. It is their way of saying "Good morning". In the wild, dogs that are gone for the day to hunt will be met with a lick by the other dogs that were left behind. The same thing goes when a dog has been way from the group. Dogs lick each other to let everyone know that all is okay.

Dog Skin Allergies

The licking behavior has been handed down to the modern day dogs by their ancestors in the wild. Notice how a dog returning from the vet or from a stroll in the park will be licked by the other pets that were left behind.

Dog Skin Allergies

Dogs lick other dogs to clean and to groom themselves. Humans have hands that can reach all parts of the body. Since dogs do not have the hands to reach inaccessible part of their bodies, other dogs will do the cleaning for them. In the absence of hand and hairbrushes, the tongue will do the cleaning and the grooming. It is a give and take agreement between the dogs - you lick and clean my ears and I will lick and clean your ears too.

Dogs lick other dogs to show affection. This time licking will be done in short licks that will move gradually around the body, very similar to the petting of human hands. Licking can also be a form of massage. Long stokes of the tongue is done along the dogs back. You will notice the dog whine in contentment.

Male dogs lick a female dogs private parts and female dogs reciprocate the action. This is a kind of sexual act that verifies if the female dog is ready to be mated.

Why Do Dogs Lick Other Dogs?

Dog Skin Allergies