Contact Allergy in Dogs
Canine allergies that occur as a result of the skin’s contact with some aggravating substance are referred to skin contact allergies. They differ from allergic reactions to insect bites, medications or inhalants such as pollen because they originate on the skin’s surface rather than in the internal organs. They are caused by an extreme sensitivity to certain substances, sometimes referred to as “contact hypersensitivity.” Due to the direct nature of the interaction with the allergen, they often appear quickly and in heightened form. Hives are a common symptom of contact skin allergy.
Symptoms of Dog Skin Contact Allergy
Dog skin allergy caused by contact hypersensitivity usually appears within 30 minutes of contact with the allergen. Itching on the abdomen, paws and head is common as a result of these being the most typical parts of your dog’s body to make contact with outside substances. The resulting rash can be as extensive as the exposure to the offending substance, so if your dog is experiencing itching all over its body, a shampoo may be the cause.
Treatment of Contact Allergy in Dogs
Generally, removing the allergen from your dog’s skin will remove the reaction to it. A good first step is to shampoo your dog in an oatmeal-based shampoo such as DermaPet DermAllay Oatmeal Shampoo for Pets. Other hypoallergenic shampoos such as Hyliderm Hypoallergenic Shampoo by Vitality Systems for Dogs and Veterinarian's Best Hypoallergenic Shampoo for Dogs and Cats might also work well.
To help reduce the itchiness associated with contact allergy rashes, you might want to try an anti-itch spray such as Veterinarian's Best Natural Care Oatmeal Flea Relief Spray for Dogs and Cats.
In extreme cases, your veterinarian might prescribe a corticosteroid spray, oral medication or injection. Common varieties include Prednisolone, Atopica Cyclosporine Capsules For Dogs and Hydroxyzine Pamoate.
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