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Conditions we treat

Allergies in pets

The two most common types of allergies that your pet may experience are food allergies and environmental allergies.

Allergy treatment

An overreaction of the immune system

Allergies of any type are an overreaction of the immune system. As the animal’s body tries to fight this substance, allergy symptoms occur.

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Predisposing factors

What puts a pet at risk

Genetics Genetic predisposition Any dog or cat can develop allergies during his life, but allergic reactions are especially common in Terriers, Setters, Retrievers, Pugs, Bulldogs and Boston Terriers.
Environment Environmental factors Environmental allergens include not only chemicals and toxins but also natural grass, weed and tree pollen in spring and fall.

Common symptoms

Signs of allergies in dogs and cats

Skin issues

  • Itchy, red, moist or scabbed skin
  • Excessive scratching or licking
  • Itchy ears and ear infections
  • Paw chewing, swollen paws
  • Skin infections, hair loss, crusty skin

Digestive issues

  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea, soft stool
  • Gas, bloating
  • Anal sac conditions

Respiratory issues

  • Itchy, runny eyes
  • Sneezing or sinusitis
  • Bronchitis or asthma

Conventional treatment

Symptom relief, and its limits

Conventional treatment of allergies is most commonly directed at blocking or suppressing the immune response. While this approach can provide symptomatic relief, it does not address the underlying cause of the problem.

When we shut down the immune system, we open the door to infections and other complications of a nonfunctioning immune system.

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Holistic care for allergies

Treating the root of the problem

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Detoxify Medical ozone Medical ozone therapy is used to detoxify the body and to activate the immune system by stimulating the production of cytokines. It has been used in the medical field in Europe since the 1800s to reduce allergies, inflammation and infection. Medical ozone creates a cascade effect to reduce the allergic reaction without side effects.
Heal from within Nutritional supplements and herbs An essential component of the healing process. Half of your pet’s immune system is in the digestive tract, so good intestinal health is crucial if you are to treat his allergies permanently. There are many different supplements and herbs that are beneficial for allergy issues; the specific ones we recommend are based on each individual pet’s needs.

Summary

An integrative approach

These holistic treatments can be very helpful for pets with allergic diseases. They can be used separately or together, and they can be combined with medications if needed, allowing an integrative approach to the problem. When we address the variety of factors at the root of the pet’s allergy problem, the allergies can be reduced.

It may take time, but good health is possible if the body is supported and not suppressed.

In their words

The hearts we’ve touched

A woman crouching beside her German Shepherd on a wooded path, one arm around the dog.

“I arrived with a bag of pills and not much hope for Fina’s quality of life. Dr. Strickfaden listened, and within weeks my German Shepherd was on the road to recovery.”

Susan H.J. · Freedom, WI
A woman lies cheek to cheek with her golden retriever on the grass, both grinning.

“Years ago when all other vets gave up on my older dog Katy, Dr. Strickfaden got her back to agility competition form with acupuncture. I’m a big fan!”

Betsy F. · Green Lake, WI
A happy red poodle hugged over its owner’s shoulder.

“Countrycare Animal Complex is what I wish for all pets. Your compassion and genuine caring makes all the difference. Duke is a happy dog because of you.”

Maureen M. · De Pere, WI
A Yorkshire terrier looks out over a woman’s shoulder as she holds him.

“Everyone there was great — from making the appointment to the vet tech to our vet. Everyone was super friendly and nice. They took their time. We didn’t feel rushed. We were very happy and grateful to the staff.”

Anne S. · Denmark, WI
A smiling man lies on the grass beside his happy golden retriever.

“Dr. Heintz was so gentle and compassionate with our dog. The vet tech was so kind and understanding with all of the questions that I asked her. They made me feel comfortable with the decisions that we made for Maddie.”

Faye D. · Algoma, WI