dog flowers

Allergies in Pets

The two most common types of allergies that your pet may experience are food allergies and environmental allergies. Allergies of any type are an overreaction of the immune system. As the animal’s body tries to fight this substance, allergy symptoms occur.

Predisposing Factors for Allergies

  • 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.
  • Poor Diet: Corn, wheat, dairy, soy and gluten are the most common food allergens. It is best to eliminate all of these foods from your pet’s diet. A high quality grain free diet is essential for improving allergy symptoms.
  • Environmental Factors: Environmental allergens include not only chemicals and toxins but also natural grass, weed and tree pollen in spring and fall.

Conventional Treatment

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.

Common Symptoms of Allergies in Dogs and Cats

Respiratory Issues

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

Digestive Issues

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

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

Holistic Care for Allergies

Bicom Therapy is a holistic approach to boosting the immune system, clearing allergens and sensitivities in the body. It is useful to test and treat any potential allergen or sensitivity – including foods, pollens, chemicals, metals and vaccines. This therapy was originally developed by physicists and pediatricians to treat allergies in children in Europe. The technology has been adapted to be helpful for our animal friends.

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 1800’s to reduce allergies, inflammation and infection. Medical ozone creates a cascade effect to reduce the allergic reaction without side effects.

Nutritional supplements and Herbs are an essential component of the healing process. Half of your body’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 herbs and supplements that are recommended are based on each individual pet’s needs.

Summary

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.

What People
Have Said

"We have used the holistic services offered by Countrycare and have always been happy with the services and results we've seen.  We feel that the Bicom treatments helped Makayla keep her mobile and on four legs much longer than she otherwise would have been given her condition.  We've always received fabulous service from the staff and vets at Countrycare and we highly recommend their holistic services to everyone we meet!!"
- Rachel C., Luxemburg