Does your pet have allergies?

An allergy is an abnormal response to a natural, harmless substance that the body has identified as an intruder or invader. This causes the immune system to react aggressively: producing excess histamine and mobilizing overactive white blood cells; which in turn can do more damage to the body than the invader.

Allergic responses differ greatly with animals. Often dogs experience itchy skin eruptions (often referred to as “hot spots”), inflamed ears, excessive licking of the feet, inflammation of the toes and anus, and digestive upset. Cats usually experience itchy skin eruptions (“hot spots”), small bumps, sores, scabs, inflammation of the bladder (cystitis), and digestive upset. Some other symptoms might be: sneezing; congestion of the nose, ears, sinuses, throat, and lungs; as well as inflamed lips, acne, and bloody pimples.

Although the cause of allergies is largely unknown, there have been a number of speculations that might hold true for many animals. Most theorists discuss an excess of chemicals in the body. When there are too many chemicals flowing into the body, the kidneys and liver cannot adequately process them all; over time, the system becomes toxic. A heavily polluted body is more likely to have an overactive immune system, making the possibility of allergies more likely. Possible causes of toxicity are: pesticides, pollution, heavily processed foods, some prescription medications, use of chemicals in homes and gardens, vaccinations, and cosmetic breeding.

Suggestions for improvement of a dog or cat with allergies are varied that should be discussed with a wellness counselor and veterinarian. Some suggestions may include: diet altercations (including organic food, hand-made food, raw food, elimination of food allergies, and/or natural packaged food), massage, acupuncture, and various emotional/mental treatments. Supplementation with essential fatty acids, a multi-vitamin and mineral complex, antioxidants, homeopathy, probiotics, enzymes, herbs, Willard water, essential oils, and/or flower essences may also bring benefits. Enhancing the animals environmental health may be helpful: attempt to use an air purifier and water purifier; avoiding electromagnetic radiation through power lines, computers, cell phones, microwaves, etc; avoiding exposure to chemicals in foods and drugs; and avoiding heavy metals in dental work, vaccinations, etc. Working closely with a licensed standard or holistic veterinarian and animal wellness counselor may help alleviate many allergy symptoms and bring greater mental/emotional/physical health to the dog or cat.