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News You Can Use

Pet allergies all too common this time of year

University Relations
News Bureau (662) 325-3442
Contact: Mike Pizzitola
June 21, 2007

STARKVILLE, Miss.-As the summer season begins, allergies may become a constant problem for the family pet.

Since they are especially allergy-prone, dogs often find this time of year to be brutal. The cumulative effects of dust mites and pollen may cause Fido to constantly bite its feet, rub its rear end, scratch its skin, and lick itself.

Beyond leaving the dog feeling very uncomfortable and aggressive, the irritants could result in infections from open wounds where they have bitten and scratched, says Dr. Mark Russak of Mississippi State's College of Veterinary Medicine. Correct medical diagnosis and treatment are necessary to control the allergy problems, he adds.

"I can successfully treat 90 percent of allergy cases after the proper steps have been taken to determine the type of allergy the dog has," the assistant clinical professor observes.

Russak provides two tips for owners:

If suspicions arise that dog allergies have developed, seek immediate veterinary assistance, which may include a full physical examination that possibly involves a skin scrape and blood test.
While steroids can immediately help ease some of the problems, always remember that steroid use over time has extremely damaging effects, including a weakening of the bones and muscles, and infections secondary to a suppressed immune system.

Once the examination is complete, the veterinarian can provide advice and instruction on how best to keep "man's best friend" comfortable until more pleasant weather conditions return.