Why We’re Considering Allergy Testing

Allergies in pets—whether from food, pollen, dust mites, or mold—can cause chronic itching, skin infections, ear problems, and discomfort. Allergy testing helps us identify what’s triggering your pet’s symptoms and guides us in choosing the most effective, long-term treatments.

Why Allergy Testing Matters

1. Predictability:
   Once we know what your pet is allergic to, we can better predict when flare-ups may occur—like during specific seasons—and treat them before symptoms get worse.
2. Avoidance:
   Knowing the triggers helps us reduce exposure by making small, manageable lifestyle changes. Our goal is to support your pet’s health without limiting their happiness or daily routine.
3. Immunotherapy (Allergy Shots or Drops):
   This is the only treatment that targets the root cause—not just the symptoms. It works by gradually exposing your pet to small amounts of their allergens, helping their immune system build tolerance over time.

💡 Most pets need at least a year to show significant improvement. If successful, immunotherapy may reduce or even eliminate the need for medications long-term.

How Well Does It Work?

According to the lab:

• 66% of pets improve with immunotherapy alone
  
• 90% improve with a combination of diet and immunotherapy
  
  From clinical experience, we typically see 60–70% improvement. Every pet responds differently, so we’ll tailor the plan to your pet’s needs.

Anti-Itch Medications

While we wait for immunotherapy to take effect, your pet may need anti-itch medications—especially during the first 3–6 months. Some may need long-term relief.

Skin & Health Support

To help reduce flare-ups and reliance on medications:

• Use Omega-3 & 6 supplements to support skin health
  
• Bathe every 1–2 weeks in summer if needed
  
• Clean ears weekly (if prone to infections)
  
• Give monthly dewormers and flea/tick protection
  
• Avoid treats or food from others—hidden allergens can trigger symptoms

Important Notes

• Allergies can be managed, but not cured. Most allergic pets need some form of ongoing treatment for life.
  
• New allergies may develop over time—even after testing.

What If Immunotherapy Doesn’t Work?

If your pet doesn’t respond to allergy shots or drops, long-term use of anti-itch medication may be needed to keep them comfortable and healthy.