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Dog owners should learn to recognize dog allergy symptoms. In recent years there is increased incidence of allergic reactions. Being allergic means a person suffers a hypersensitive response to an allergen. An allergen can be any substance that is otherwise harmless.

Things which cause allergies are referred to as allergens. They are otherwise harmless to most people. To those who are hypersensitive to them, they trigger an immune response. This does not happen with immediate exposure, but develops over a period of time. Antibodies build up to attack the allergens. Special white blood cells, called mast cells, wage war against the allergens. Symptoms occur which cause acute discomforts to the person or animal.

The skin disorders of allergic response is quite miserable to dogs. Rashes, redness, and bumps result in intense itching. In attempts to obtain relief, the animal scratches, causing abrasions. The skin breaks often become infected, causing more discomfort. This frequently results in hair loss at the site and surrounding area. The continual discomfort may cause hyperactive behaviours to be exhibited.

Atopic allergies are the most common in dogs. It can be caused by airborne allergens. Ordinary items such as air fresheners, dust, smoke, mold, pollen, etc, can cause allergies. Some veterinarians believe it to be from a combination of airborne and skin contact sources. The presenting symptoms are the same with either source.

Contact dermatitis allergy is another type. The usual causes are grass, bushes, lawn treatments, fabrics, carpet fibers, or plastics. Perfumed shampoos, or any topical substance may be the culprit. Reddened, itchy bumps appear on the skin. Hair loss occurs as a result of intense scratching.

A protein in flea saliva causes allergic response in dogs. They are not allergic to the fleas. Those that are frequently exposed to fleas build up some degree of resistance. Those that are not may have severe reactions soon after exposure.Reddened, raised bumps cause severe itching. The skin breaks from scratching can become infected. Loss of hair may result from repeated intense scratching.

Food allergies in dogs is not uncommon. This differs from food intolerance. Intolerance may cause vomiting, diarrhea, and flatus. Changing to a different pet food may solve this problem. A quality brand pet food can be recommended by a veterinarian. Sometimes, a dog may become allergic to the food he/she is used to eating. This is less likely to occur with better brands. Food allergies, as in other hypersensitive responses, exhibits as itching. Scooting on carpets and lawn in attempt to obtain relief from anal itching may be noted.

Sometimes, sarcoptic mange can be mistaken for an allergic reaction. The signs are similar, with much scratching. It is often referred to simply as mange. Sarcoptic mange is caused by mites that burrows under the skin. In humans, it is called scabies. It requires a special medication to kill the mites. Cool baths may help skin discomforts temporarily. Diagnosis can only be made by a veterinarian. Treatment with products containing natural ingredients can be safe and effective.

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