Allergies

Causes

Allergies are caused by an over-reaction of the body to certain molecules 'allergens' that can come from a variety of sources, including:

• environment: grass, pollen, dust mites, fabrics, chemicals
• parasites: flea or mosquito bites,
• food: food components and additives.

It can be quite a challenge for your vet to determine the allergens that your dog is allergic to:

Canine Atopic Dermatitis or CAD is the technical term for dog allergy caused by environmental allergens. It's a common disease that may involve 10% to 15% of dogs. Some breeds are predisposed to Canine Atopic Dermatitis such as West Highland White Terriers, Lhassa Apsos, English and Irish Setters, Retrievers, Boxers, Bulldogs and Dalmatians.

The skin barrier is essential to protect the body from allergens and it is now known atopic dogs exhibit skin barrier defects. That's why it's essential to support and protect the skin barrier in allergic dogs. DOUXO^® contains specific ingredients to help protect your dog's skin barrier.

Signs

The main symptom of allergy is skin irritation. Allergic dogs are itchy and may chew or scratch typical sites like their feet, face, ears or belly. The skin may be pink or warm in affected areas.

They can be prone to ear infections. In some dogs, dirty, itchy or infected ears may be the only sign of an allergy.Secondary bacterial infections of the skin are common as scratching and licking damage the skin barrier and allow an infection to occur.
In dogs with an allergy, as in atopic children, we see a skin flora imbalance during atopic flares. That's why caring for the skin between flares with DOUXO^® may help to restore normal skin microflora.

Secondary bacterial infections of the skin are common as scratching and licking can contaminate the damaged skin barrier. In dogs, as in atopic children, we clearly observe a skin flora imbalance during atopic flares. That's why it's essential to clean and care the skin between flares with DOUXO^® skin care solutions.

1. Consult your vet to discuss testing for your pet's allergies. 
2. Help control the skin condition by using a high-quality shampoo or mousse to soothe the irritation and to restore the skin's ecosystem. Choose special formulas for irritated, itchy and sensitive skins.
3. Rinse your pet with fresh water after walking to wash allergens off.
4. Feed your pet a high-quality, balanced diet. You can supplement with essential fatty acids, vitamins and minerals if recommended by your vet. Sometimes, your vet may prescribe a special hypoallergenic diet that test's to see if your dog has a food allergy.
5. Keep your pet free from parasites: treat against fleas, ticks and worms on a regular basis.
6. Schedule regular check-up consultations with your vet to monitor your dog's skin condition. You can also take pictures of your dog to show the progress of the skin condition over time.