Animal Allergy Testing I Kanan Veterinary Hospital

Protect Your Pet

PET DERMATOLOGY & ALLERGY CARE IN OAK PARK, CA

Serving All of Oak Park, Thousand Oaks, Agoura Hills & More!

Is your pet scratching, chewing, or licking excessively? Are you noticing discolored fur or hair loss where they are licking too much? These are often symptoms of allergies in pets. Environmental allergies in dogs are one of the most common reasons for vet visits.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are Pet Environmental Allergies?

Environmental allergies occur - both in humans and dogs - when there is an exaggerated immune response to an allergen. An allergen is a protein that comes from exposure to things like tree and grass pollen, dander, and flea saliva. Pets will often develop antibodies to allergens and then overreact to them. This leads to itchiness and inflammation.

Can a Vet Diagnose and Treat My Pet’s Allergies?

Yes! The team at Kanan Veterinary Hospital can help. We may start by allergy testing your pet to determine what they are allergic to. If there is an allergic reaction to a particular allergen, we know this is a trigger for them. At that point, we may consider desensitization therapy using oral drops or injections which is helpful in about 70% of allergic dogs. In other cases, we may recommend medication or medicated baths for symptom control. We will discuss your pet’s unique case and work with you to determine the best treatment for your pet.

Do Pets Have Food Allergies?

Yes, pets can definitely be allergic to certain foods. A food allergy occurs when there is an overreaction of the immune system to a particular ingredient. Food allergies can cause a variety of symptoms including:

Red or dry skin
Oily skin and hair
Ear infections
Skin infections
Over-grooming in cats
Self-grooming in dogs
Hot spots
Hair loss
Gastrointestinal issues
Watery eyes
Sneezing
Swelling

How Will You Diagnose and Treat My Pet’s Food Allergy?

We will work closely with you and your pet to determine the best way to diagnose and treat your pet’s food allergy. We may recommend a dietary elimination trial. This type of testing should only be done under the supervision of a veterinarian. Once we see how your pet reacts, the best food will be determined based on your pet’s age, general health, previous diet, and the symptoms that are being exhibited.

Schedule an Appointment Today at Kanan Veterinary Hospital

At Kanan Veterinary Hospital, we understand how much you love your pet. No matter the reason for your visit, we will make sure your pet receives the best care available from professionals who truly care. To learn more about pet allergies and treatment or to make an appointment, call us at 818-532-7434 today.