I hear this very often. People are almost as bothered as their pet when it begins itching, licking and scratching. Your conventional vet will probably prescribe a steroid, antihistimine or other medication. Usually conventional veterinary training will lead a doctor to suggest a certain diet change...and he/she will have it available.
Here are some pointers and tips for dealing successfully with allergies. I have not met a dog in 8 years that I cannot help withou the use of toxic medicines or silly diets.
1) Stop the use of commercial dog food.
2) Get no more vaccinations until the dog has been allergy free for 12 months. (Unless by law you need a rabies shot)
3) Feed a homemade diet without meat or at least use a high quality organic meat or fish. I prefer organic, lentils, quinoa, rye flakes, nutritional yeast, ground flaxseed, fresh spinach, carrots, potatoes, broccoli and olive or vegetable oil. My dogs like to also sanck on almonds. (Few is better than many).
4) Give your dog plain yogurt before or after every meal. if the food is room temperatrure or chilled you might also just mix the yogurt in with the food.
5) Be sure you have a daily exercise program and that you dog spends lots of time everyday with the family or a family member.
6) Wean your dog off any medications that are for allergies.
7) Give your dog weekly or even bi-weekly massages. get more information at http://www.petmassageandacupressure.blogspot.com/
These are some excellent starting points for dealing with canine allergies and I am sure you'll notice a difference within 3-5 days in most cases. Allergies are not a disease. They simply point to a digestive, circulatory or immune dysfunction. Drugs that supress those symptom are creating future problems. I also suggest getting well read on options for controlling fleas, ticks and heartworm without use of medications.
Point to Ponder: Dogs are not necessarily healtheir today than they were 40 years ago. They may live longer, just as humans, but not with quality life. Support your healthy dogs natural functions early on and you'll have a dog that lives long and healthy without medical intrusion that is not necessary.
With all of that said, do NOT neglect visiting with your holistic veterinarian about your dogs needs.
