Pet Health Expertise Unleashed: Navigating Allergies with Our Vets
March is not just about the arrival of spring; it’s also the month we dedicate to understanding and managing allergies in our beloved pets. At Pet Health, our team is ready to share valuable insights on handling pet allergies. In this edition of “Pet Health Expertise Unleashed,” each of our doctors reveals their go-to tips for navigating the allergy season with your furry companions.
Dr. B’s Multi-Modal Magic: A Holistic Approach to Allergies
Dr. B believes in the power of a multimodal approach to allergies. He advises, “Too often, we get caught up in the ‘one medication works or it doesn’t’ mindset. Combining simple options like daily fatty acids or over-the-counter antihistamines during flare-ups can enhance the effectiveness of more advanced medications, such as Apoquel or Cytopoint.”
Dr. Lewis’ Fatty Acid Fantastic: A Boost for Skin and Joints
Dr. Lewis strongly advocates incorporating fatty acids into a pet’s routine. She explains, “Fatty acids are fantastic supplements that benefit skin and joints. Surprisingly, up to 10 percent of pets can find relief from allergies with fatty acids alone, though it takes time. Their versatility, available in various formulations, makes them a great fit for any budget.”
Dr. DeVilbiss’ Diagnostic Precision: Identifying the Root Cause
Dr. DeVilbiss emphasizes the importance of identifying the primary cause of allergies. “Don’t just manage secondary problems like skin or ear infections; take the time to determine the main cause. Whether distinguishing between environmental and food allergies or opting for more complex allergy testing, this information allows us to tailor a more targeted and personalized treatment plan.”
Dr. Clarke’s Culinary Detective: Navigating Food Allergies
Dr. Clarke, the culinary detective, shares insights on managing food allergies. “When conducting a food trial, tracing your pet’s steps throughout the day is crucial. Changing the kibble is just the first step; understanding their environment matters. The whole family must be involved, and open communication on whether a food allergy trial can or can’t be done with us is key.”
Dr. Mkhitarian’s Contamination Caution: A Prescription for Safety
Dr. Mkhitarian provides a cautionary tip on handling food allergies. “The absence of an allergen in over-the-counter dog food doesn’t guarantee safety due to potential contamination. Think granola bars that warn “made in a factory with dairy and peanuts.” Even though dairy and peanuts are not ingredients, they could still react to them if someone is allergic enough. I recommend a prescription option for feeding trials to ensure allergen-free meals and prevent unexpected reactions.”
Dr. Pizzillo’s Proactive Prevention: The Key to Healthy Skin
Dr. Pizzillo stresses the importance of proactive allergy management. “Consistency is key. Treating allergies early prevents secondary issues like skin and ear infections. Monitoring your pet, especially during allergy season, and treating your pet at the first signs can maintain their comfort, and it’s a more cost-effective approach.”
Unleash Comfort, Tame Allergies!
There you have it—expert advice from our incredible team at Pet Health. As March unfolds and allergy season begins, apply these tips to ensure a comfortable and joyful experience for your pets. Remember, each pet is unique, so finding the right approach may take some experimentation.
Let’s navigate allergy season together, keeping those tails wagging and allergies at bay!
