Helping Your Dog Deal With Allergic Dermatitis & Skin Irritants

Pesky Pests and Itching Season

Allergies are all too common and the same pollens and house dust that cause allergic reactions in people often cause allergic dermatitis in dogs. Allergic dermatitis is an inflammation of the skin. It can be caused by many things, but regardless of the source, the end result can be licking, scratching, maybe even hair loss, but definitely discomfort for your dog.

What can you do?

Your veterinarian may try to help manage your dog's allergy by numerous methods including injections, oral medications, nutritional management, topical shampoos, dips, ointments and environmental treatments.

At home, you can provide plenty of clean water (your veterinarian may even recommend distilled water). If your vet has performed a biopsy or prescribed a medicine, be certain to closely follow instructions for care and activity restrictions. Use environmental sprays and foggers only as directed. And watch your dog closely for signs that the condition is recurring. Do not hesitate to call the clinic if questions or problems arise.

Nutrition can impact dogs with food allergies and nutritional fatty acid therapy has been used in dogs with allergic skin disease or dogs with pruritis or dermatitis.

Discover more about the benefits of Hill's® Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin or one of our Science Diet Grain Free  products for your dog or consult your veterinarian about the effectiveness of Hill's Prescription Diet® therapeutic pet foods.