JULY 2, 2014
Latest allergy treatment for dogs
Skin conditions and allergies typically present as problems with the eyes, ear infections, chewing at the feet, skin infections or many other symptoms.
The first common treatment for allergies is antihistamines. Benadryl is the most common home use medication. Antihistamines are generally inexpensive and readily available. Antihistamines are variably effective, with about 50 percent of dogs getting some relief if used properly. They may reduce the need for other more expensive or toxic medications and are often used along with other allergy treatments.
The second common treatment for allergies is systemic glucocorticoid steroids. Common names include prednisone, dexamethasone, and triamcinolone, also inexpensive and readily available. They are extremely effective at dealing with allergies with over 95 percent of dogs getting some significant relief. Their disadvantage is side effects. They are detrimental to liver, heart, joints and just about every other part of your body. They are often used to get allergies under control, but are not ideal for long term treatment. Steroids can also be used topically, but these formulations are less effective.
The third common treatment for allergies is high dose Cyclosporine, commonly known as Atopica. The biggest disadvantage to this product is cost. The side effects are intestinal upset that most dogs adjust to over time. It does not have the detrimental effects of glucocorticoid steroids. About 60 –70 percent of dogs get significant relief. It is a good choice for long term treatment.
A newer drug is Apoquel. It is moderate in cost. Side effects are intestinal with most dogs adjusting quickly. Estimates include over 90 percent of dogs getting significant allergy relief. Disadvantage is availability. Currently on backorder, it is expected to re-emerge in the market in April 2015. It appears to be a great drug for long term allergy control.
A special diet (Anallergenic by The Royal Canine Company) your dog cannot have an allergy to effectively tests for food allergies. In studies 37.5 percent of dogs treated with diet alone were completely resolved of their allergy symptoms. Almost 100 percent showed improvement in skin condition.
At Dove Valley Animal Hospital the key to dealing with allergies is a cooperative effort between the doctor and the individual client and pet. No two situations are identical. A comprehensive physical exam and excellent communication between doctor and pet owner are key. It is important to remember that allergies are never cured, and at best are simply controlled.
Call 480-595-5731 or visit www.dovevalleyah.com
JUNE 25, 2014
Double the Cuddle
Celebrating Adopt a Cat or Kitten Month at FAR
2 Kittens - 1 Adoption Fee
It's that time again ....kitten season. Foothills Animal Rescue has an abundance of adorable, adoptable kittens that need their forever loving homes. So what's better than a kitten in your home for hours of entertainment and unconditional love? TWO kittens – double the play and the love. Special adoption pricing only $75 for 2 that includes spay/neuter, core vaccinations, free vet visit, microchip, 30 day gift insurance, and food discount. 23030 N. Pima Rd., Scottsdale, AZ 85255 480-488-9890, www.foothillsanimal.org.
JULY 2, 2014
Tips for a pet-safe July 4
PHOENIX – July 4 is no "blast" for pets. Here are some tips for pet owners for a safe Independence Day holiday:
Resist the urge to take pets to Independence Day festivities. Instead, keep them safe from the noise in a quiet, sheltered and escape-proof area inside your home.
Never leave pets outside unattended, even in a fenced yard or on a chain. In their fear of loud noises, pets who normally wouldn't leave the yard may escape or become entangled in their chain, causing injury or death.
Leave a television or radio playing at normal volume to keep your pet company while you're attending picnics, parades, and other celebrations. Some animals can become destructive when frightened, so remove any items your pet could destroy or that would be harmful to your pet if chewed.
Never use fireworks around pets. Exposure to lit fireworks can result in severe burns and trauma to the face and paws of curious pets. Even unused fireworks can pose a danger, as many types contain toxic substances such as potassium nitrate and arsenic.
Make sure your pets have a microchip and are wearing identification tags so that, if they do become lost, they can be returned promptly. Animals found running at-large without owner identification should be taken to Maricopa Animal Care and Control, where they will have the best chance of being reunited with their owners.
Do not leave your pet in the car. With only hot air to breathe inside a car, your pet can suffer serious health effects — even death — in a few short minutes. Partially opened windows do not provide sufficient air, but they do provide an opportunity for your pet to be stolen.
Never leave alcoholic drinks unattended where pets can reach them. Alcoholic beverages have the potential to poison pets. If ingested, the animal could become very intoxicated and weak, severely depressed or could go into a coma. Death from respiratory failure is also possible.
If you are using a barbeque grill, always keep an eye on your pet, to be sure anything hot is out of reach of hungry dog noses. Remember some food and drink may be toxic to pets. Also make sure gates to your yard are kept closed, so your pet does not get lost while you entertain guests.
For more information on keeping your pets safe this summer, visit the Arizona Animal Welfare League & Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals at http://www.aawl.org.
