Can dogs get allergies too?

Believe it or not, they can. Whereas humans with allergies often display hay fever symptoms, dogs with allergies react by itching. This itch is caused by the body reacting negatively to an allergen irritating the skin.

Food, pollen, dust, fleas…all of these can contribute to allergies in dogs. Although allergies can’t be cured, they can be managed. Your veterinarian may prescribe medicated shampoos, steroids, essential fatty acids, or allergy injections to relieve your pet’s discomfort and reduce his signs.

Below are some products that Virbac has developed to treat skin allergies in dogs. If you have questions about any of these treatments, be sure to talk with your veterinarian. As with any treatment, always listen to your veterinarian’s instructions and read the product label.

Our Products

Shampoos/conditioners:

ALLERMYL® Shampoo: A thick-formula shampoo that relieves itching and irritation associated with skin allergies while cleansing the surface of the skin. Helps maintain skin integrity and natural balance.

CORTISOOTHE® Shampoo: An anti-itching and anti-inflammatory shampoo used to treat skin conditions responsive to corticosteroids.

EPI-SOOTHE® Shampoo: This natural, soap-free shampoo is derived from oat grain and works to soothe, cleanse, and control mild itch in dogs with dry and sensitive skin.

EPI-SOOTHE® Cream Rinse and Conditioner: This moisturizing, oatmeal cream rinse and conditioner soothes itching and helps restore natural skin oils and moisture, adding a high sheen to the hair coat.

Sprays:

GENESIS® (triamcinolone acetonide) Topical Spray: Proven to control itching in dogs with skin allergies, GENESIS (triamcinolone acetonide) Topical Spray is sprayed directly on affected skin.

GENESIS Topical Spray should not be used on dogs during pregnancy. The safety of this product has not been evaluated in dogs less than 8 lbs or younger than 1 year of age. Click here for more details.

Lotions/lipid complex:

ALLERDERM® Spot-On Skin Lipid Complex: Easy-to-use therapy that helps repair and restore your dog’s protective skin barrier. Contains a blend of fatty acids similar to those found in normal, healthy skin.

RESICORT® Leave-On Lotion: A unique lotion that controls itching and inflammation and can be left on your dog’s skin and coat for a prolonged period of time. Leaves no oily or sticky residue behind.

RESISOOTHE® Leave-On Lotion: A leave-on lotion containing oatmeal and fatty acids. This product can be used on dogs with mildly itchy skin or on dogs with healthy skin and hair coats.

If you have questions about any of these treatments or specific concerns about your pet’s health, print out our Checkup Checklist and contact your veterinarian.
© 2012 Virbac AH, Inc. All Rights Reserved. All products cited are registered trademarks or trademarks of Virbac Corporation or one of its affiliates in the US.