Allergy Testing and Treatment

in El Paso, TX

Has your furry friend been itching or sneezing nonstop for no apparent reason? Just like their human families, pets can develop allergies, which produce symptoms like skin irritation, gastrointestinal upset, or respiratory problems. At Lost Dog Vet, we offer allergy testing for cats and dogs to provide targeted treatment and lasting relief. Contact our El Paso practice for the personalized care your pet deserves.

Services

What Are Signs and Symptoms of Allergies in Pets?

Signs of pet allergies may include the following:

Excessive scratching of the skin, paws, or ears
Red or inflamed skin, eyes, or face
Hot spots
Sneezing, coughing, or wheezing
Runny nose or watery eyes
Vomiting or diarrhea
Chronic ear infections

If your pet experiences any of these symptoms or if you have any concerns, contact Lost Dog Vet to schedule a consultation.

Environmental Allergy Testing and Management

Environmental allergies are one of the most common types of allergies in pets. These typically occur as a result of an immune system that's hypersensitive to "allergens" found in plants, mold, pollen, dander, dust mites, fleas, or other sources. With repeated exposure, certain allergens can sensitize your furry friend's immune system, resulting in more severe reactions with each following exposure. Environmental allergies can occur seasonally, especially during spring and fall, or may be present year-round.

At Lost Dog Vet, we offer the following environmental allergy testing and management services:

Allergy Testing: We send a small sample of your pet's blood to a specialized laboratory to reveal the sources of your pet's allergies. Uncovering the underlying causes of your furry friend’s discomfort is the first step toward effective treatment and long-term relief.
Immune Desensitization Therapy: Once we pinpoint the source of your pet's distress, we use an approach known as immune desensitization therapy. This involves exposing your pet to small, regular amounts of the allergens, which helps the immune system build tolerance over time. Immune desensitization therapy addresses the root cause of the allergy, reducing symptoms and improving your pet's overall quality of life.
Symptomatic Relief: While waiting for the effects of immune desensitization therapy, it's also important to address your pet's symptoms to provide immediate relief. For itching and skin irritation, we may recommend medications such as Cytopoint or antihistamines to ease your pet's discomfort.

Food Allergy Management

Food allergies can be another significant concern for pets, just as they are for humans. If we suspect your pet has a food allergy, we may recommend a food trial. The process involves feeding your pet a hypoallergenic diet, excluding common allergens such as beef, chicken, dairy, or wheat.

Should there be an improvement, the next step is reintroducing foods one at a time until we pinpoint the allergen behind your pet's symptoms. Our knowledgeable team will recommend a specific diet based on your pet's needs. We are happy to offer a variety of prescription diets, when indicated, to meet your pet's nutritional needs while managing their allergies effectively.