Greyhound Gang - Medical

Allergies

Achoo, by Lisa Walk

Allergy season is here and many of our pets and us will be faced with seasonal allergies. Common allergic triggers are dust, pollen, fungus & mold. Household cleaning product residue can also trigger allergic responses, both from inhalation and contact with the offending agent.

Dogs tend to manifest allergic responses in their skin. The initial phase can be seen in hives, "whorls or wheels" as they are sometimes referred to. This can progress to a more serious condition such as pyoderma- small pus filled eruptions, usually running from base of neck to tail. Other signs of allergies are excessive foot licking with or without sores in between the toes; weepy irritated eyes, runny nose, ear infections and red, irritated belly/flank area.

The building blocks to health are good genes and a good diet. Allergies may be more prevalent in an individual whose parents were also allergy sufferers. We can't do much about the genes our pets have inherited, however, we can control their diet. There are many commercial kibble and canned foods available, some better than others. Look for a food that has a relatively "clean" ingredient list. The use of a relatively short, high quality ingredient list and essential fatty acid sources is helpful when treating allergies. The Whole Dog Journal www.whole-dog-journal.com publishes a yearly premium kibble and canned food review, and it is a valuable resource for many other holistic pet care topics.

To be cost effective, many supermarket commercial foods have a base of grain and fillers such as soy and various meals and byproducts. Many commercial foods contain artificial colors and flavors, a copious amount of sugar and salt to make it palatable and preservatives for a long shelf life. Many natural health advocates feel that these commercial foods, laden with ingredients the dogs would do better without, are contributing to many of the allergy and other autoimmune problems that are challenging our animal companions today. Many of these problems respond quickly to a switch from commercial foods (yes, even the "good" brands) to a raw, natural diet.

Over-vaccination can also trigger an inappropriate immune response, discuss your current vaccination protocol with your vet. Current research from Colorado State University College of Veterinary Medicine recommends re-vaccinating only every three years as opposed to the standard practice of annual re-vaccinations. The research has shown that if a dog receives their full series of puppy shots, they should have sufficient immunity for at least three years, possibly lifetime immunity. Titer tests are also available for checking immunity levels. Blood is drawn and sent to a lab where it is screened for sufficient levels of immunity.

As well as finding a food that does not trigger or exacerbate an allergic response, supplements can also help in treatment of allergies. Vitamins C and Omega 3 Fatty Acids are two of the more common supplements often recommended, as they provide a natural antihistamine, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effect. Additionally, MSM (methylsufonylmethane) and Shark Cartilage have helped many dogs with Allergy symptoms due to their anti-inflammatory compounds. Our retired racers certainly benefit from these supplements given on a daily basis for arthritis and other joint issues. Try some for your allergy sufferers and they will receive the added benefit of assisting their mobility as they age! We have used Greyhound Gang products for years with good success.

HOLISTIC VETERINARY INFORMATION:
To locate a holistic veterinarian in you area that can assist you with appropriate holistic health care choices for your animal, you can contact the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association (AHVMA), 2214 Old Emmorton Road, Bel Air, MD 21015, (410) 569-0795 www.AHVMA.org

What does HERBS FOR ANIMALS have to offer?

HERBS FOR ANIMALS offers our Allergy Tincture that contains Nettles, Pau D’Arco, Licorice and Burdock Root. All products are human grade quality.

If you have further questions, please feel free to e-mail!

Lisa Walk, owner/herbalist
BS, CH, LMT
Herbs for Animals, LLC - Pet Massage & Herbal Therapies
1845 White Chapel Road, Williamstown, KY 41097
Email: herbsforanimals@aol.com
Webstore: http://www.herbsforanimals.com

Allergic Skin Disease

by Susan G Wynn, DVM

Allergies are the bane of many animal and human lives, and the signs, although variable depending on species, cause misery in a variety of ways. Atopy is a common allergy to pollens, grasses, house molds and a host of other allergens, and can affect both dogs and cats. These allergens can be inhaled, ingested, or sometimes absorbed through the
skin; the resultant hypersensitivity causes a variety of clinical signs that are attributable to itchiness (pruritis). These signs may appear in the spring or fall, or even year round, and, like human allergies, cannot be curedâ€"only controlled.

Atopy is usually inherited, and pets begin to show signs between six months and eight years of age. The most commonly affected breeds are terriers, Golden and Labrador retrievers, Schnauzers, Poodles, Lhasa
Apso, Shih Tzu, and bulldogs. You may see your dog exhibiting foot licking, face rubbing, leg chewing, armpit scratching, head shaking, tail biting, discharges from the eyes or nose, and even post nasal drip (which is sometimes described as wheezing, snorting , reverse sneezing or trouble breathing). Related problems may include skin and
ear infections and anal gland problems. Cats usually have small crusty lesions over part or all of the body, usually around the neck or over the back (Scott, et al, 1995).

Your pet's treatment may vary according to the severity of the problem. The easiest, least expensive control measure is to switch your pet's diet to a good quality natural food. Grocery store and even some premium brands may be composed of poor quality ingredients and contain preservatives, dyes, antibiotics (Markus, et al, 1989),
and other chemicals that may contribute to overall ill-health or even be a source of allergic sensitivity in some animals (Parke and Lewis, 1992). Consider a high end chicken, turkey or lamb diet, available from pet stores, health food stores or your veterinarian. If one can improve overall health of the animal (and, therefore, of the skin),
allergies and fleas will not usually cause such violent skin reactions.

Conventional veterinary recommendations for the treatment of atopy usually include fatty acid supplements, hypoallergenic shampoos and topical treatments (preferably oatmeal based), antihistamines, skin
testing and allergy shots, and as a last resort, steroids . Allergy shots (or hyposensitization treatment) are effective approximately 50- 80% of the time (Scott, et al, 1995). Different antihistamines are usually tried until the one that best controls the itching is found (in my practice, we will usually try 3 different antihistamines to
find the one that works best for an individual dog; cats are not usually treated with antihistamines as successfully). Topical medications can be used to soothe hot spots and ear infections. Antibiotics and antifungals are used to control secondary bacterial and Malassezia (yeast) infections.

Holistic alternatives to these treatments will not only increase the health of the pet, but allow you to use fewer conventional drugs. In addition to a superior natural diet, some nutritional supplements may prove helpful. A basic veterinary vitamin-mineral supplement is a must, to start with. High doses of Vitamin C may have an
antihistamine-like effect (Johnston, et al, 1992). Some veterinarians have found a combination of antioxidant elements to be helpful; these include ÃŸ-carotene (or Vitamin A, in the case of a cat), Vitamin E,
and selenium. Other antioxidants, such as quercetin, are used in human allergies. Antioxidants are best used in a broad combination, since most depend on the presence of the others for best action.

A fatty acid supplement is vital. Fish oil is best, since it supplies the highest levels of the omega-3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA. Flax seed oil is a good second choiceâ€"it is not converted to these fatty acids,
but may still be helpful. Other vegetable oils, such as safflower oil, sunflower oil or even commercial products such as DermCapsÂ®, contain high levels of omega-6 fatty acids and will not control itching as well. Herbal treatments may help decrease itching. Chinese herbs are quite effective in some cases, but should be prescribed
according to Traditional Chinese Medical principles by a trained practitioner (Bensky and Gamble, 1993). Western herbs that are occasionally helpful might include yellow dock, burdock, nettles, cleavers, chickweed and various tonics, as well as specific antimicrobial and immunostimulant herbs, depending on the presence of
concurrent infections. Calendula may help relieve irritated hot spots (Weiss, 1994; Tyler, 1994; Moore, 1994). Even black tea (such as Lipton) can help calm hot spots.

Other treatments that may be useful for skin allergies include homeopathy, acupuncture, and more. A new treatment used in some practices is NAET (Nambrudripad's Allergy Eliminaton Technique).

Managing allergies requires acute powers of observation. When people feel allergies coming on, they start treatment with antihistamines well before they become extremely uncomfortable or have already developed a raging sinus infection. You must be your pet's "watchdog" treatment should begin with the onset of the most subtle signs of
itchiness; for example, when a dog begins to lick the feet or scratch the ears. Starting fish oil treatment at the beginning of allergy season is an even better idea. Don't forget the value of simply washing a dog's feet after s/he comes in from a romp in the grass.

Diligent preventive treatment at this point can ensure that your pet will not develop the serious secondary problems like skin and ear infections. It is vital to work with a holistic veterinarian in administering alternative therapies to ensure that your pet is getting correct dosages and the treatment that is most appropriate for him or her. Bibliography

D Bensky and A Gamble (1993). Chinese Herbal Medicine: Materia
Medica. Eastland Press, Seattle, WA

Curing Your Pet's Itchy Skin
by Dr. Larry Siegler
Scritch, scratch, scritch, scratch... it may be the first thing you hear every morning or even wake you up at night - your companion's itching and scratching. The most common reason for visits to The Animal Healing Center veterinary clinic and the most-asked question from visitors to Only Natural Pet Store are about itching, licking, scratching and skin problems. In this article we will discuss some of the possible causes, and a basic protocol for addressing the most common cause - allergies.
Step One: History
Evaluating the history of your companion's problem is very important in helping your veterinarian determine the cause. Though allergies are the most common cause of itching and licking, there are some diseases that need to be ruled out before embarking on the path of allergy treatment.
The following are important details that will help your veterinarian diagnose the problem:

Where is the animal the itchiest? Face, base of tail, above the hips, neck, belly, feet.. Watch your companion closely and determine his or her worst areas. Flea Allergies typically cause itching above the hips, the base of the tail, groin and thighs on dogs. Cats usually itch around the neck with flea allergies. Airborne and food allergies commonly cause itching around the face, ears, belly and feet. Scabies (Sarcoptic Mange/mites) typically cause lesions and itching around the ears, elbow, belly and hocks. Demodedectic Mange generally initially appears in young dogs on the face or forelegs. Cheyletiella (mites) characteristically present on the back or sides.
When did it start? How old was the animal? Mange is more common in younger animals. Puppies and kittens are also more susceptible to flea allergies as they have weaker, less developed immune systems. Older or ill animals are also more susceptible due to a weakened immune system.
Is the problem seasonal or year round? Seasonal itching is more indicative of flea or inhalant allergies or insect bite. In many cases, an animal will initially show signs of seasonal allergies that progress to year round problems.
Which came first - the itching or hairless patches/skin lesions? If the itchiness appeared before any skin lesions, then allergies or scabies are more likely to be the culprit. If the skin lesions were seen prior to the itchiness, then demodectic mange, ringworm, or bacterial infection caused by a hormonal imbalance might be the problem. (Most bacterial infections of the skin, however, are secondary to the allergy or other issue causing itchiness.)
Have you tried any medications or treatments that helped? Certain causes of itchy skin will respond to steroid treatment better than others. Flea allergies and airborne allergies seem to be more responsive than other causes.
Has it been contagious to any other animals or humans in the household? Sarcoptic mange, Cheyletiella and ringworm can be passed on to other animals or humans.

Once the cause of the itchy skin is determined, treatment can begin. Any secondary bacterial or yeast infections must be treated, however, before much progress can be seen in remediation of the underlying cause of the itchy skin. Hot spots occur from self trauma that results when the pet attempts to relieve a pain or itch by excessive scratching, biting and rubbing. These must be controlled with topical treatments while the animal's immune system is recovering.
A majority of itchy skin is caused by allergies, so that is what we will address here. In addition to itchy skin, other allergy symptoms may be present such as chronic ear infections or respiratory symptoms such as coughing or nasal congestion, and ocular discharge. Food allergies may also cause symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea that can ultimately progress to inflammatory bowel disease. Some holistic veterinarians also believe that seizures, arthritis, asthma and chronic urinary tract infections can be caused or complicated by food allergies.
Itchy skin and allergy symptoms such as paw chewing have also been linked to over-vaccination in a large number of cases. Frequently the symptoms will begin within days or weeks of vaccinations. Please educate yourself about vaccinations and the risks involved. A good start would be to read my article titled The Truth About Pet Vaccinations.
Treating Itchy Skin Caused by Allergies
One of the most common causes of itchy skin is fleas and flea allergies. If you suspect fleas, please read my article The Natural Approach to Flea Control. Flea control is an essential step in the treatment plan for any animal with allergies. Any dog or cat with a compromised immune system is more susceptible to fleas and parasites, so plan to treat the home environment a month BEFORE flea season begins. The last thing your dog or cat needs when already battling allergies is a flea infestation to make things worse!
Topical Treatments
If your dog or cat has been itching for awhile, they may have created bare, red patches in places that can become infected - so you need to address these areas right away. Here are some products offered at Only Natural Pet Store that can help:
For Cats:
Fido Derm Herbal Spray
Doc Ackerman's Instant Hot Spot Relief Spray
For Dogs:
Fido Derm Herbal Spray
Doc Ackerman's Instant Hot Spot Relief Spray
Liquid Hot Spot Remedy (essential oils)
Oatmeal Baths followed by conditioner to seal in moisture
If more potent topical treatment is necessary, your veterinarian can prescribe topical treatments and shampoos to help curb the itchiness.
Diet - The Essential Remedy
The first thing to address in treating the underlying cause of allergies is the animal's diet. Many animals see a dramatic improvement with a change in diet alone. With the addition of one or two basic supplements, this can be all that is needed. Allergies are accumulative in the animal's system - meaning that even if your dog or cat tends to have seasonal allergies, his or her food may be adding to the overall "load" on the system. Transitioning to a more appropriate diet (preferably raw or at least home prepared food) can make a big difference even for those with seasonal allergies by improving the overall immune system and health of the animal. Please see my article What You Need to Know About Your Pet's Food to learn more about improving your companion's diet.
Essential Fatty Acids
The first dietary supplement to consider for an animal with itchy skin is essential fatty acids (EFAs). Fish oil is considered the best source for cats and dogs since the fatty acid chains are readily usable by the animal's system without any conversion process, which is necessary for the utilization of plant sourced essential fatty acids such as flax.
EFAs help reduce inflammation and nourish the skin and coat. They can also be beneficial in assisting the healing process of the digestive system. For older animals, EFAs can help alleviate arthritis symptoms as well. The following links will display a list of essential fatty acids supplements offered by Only Natural Pet Store: