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Dog allergies are one of the most common conditions affecting dogs. The constant itching and scratching, paw licking and chewing, skin rashes or chronic ear infections can make life very unpleasant. Dogs allergies become noticeable when your dog’s immune system reacts to substances (called allergens or antigens) to which she has been exposed. Generally, allergies show up in three ways:

1. The skin – your dog will itch and scratch either in one area or all over, or you will see skin sores or lesions.
2. The respiratory system - your dog may cough, sneeze, and/or wheeze, sometimes with an associated nasal or eye discharge.
3. The digestive system - your dog vomits or has diarrhea.

There are several types of dog allergies. The two most prominent ones are environmental allergies (pollens, dust mites, fleas, etc.), and food allergies. Dog allergies can be difficult to diagnose. Many of the symptoms you may see can be a result of allergies or of another illness. It is best to get your pet examined by your Veterinarian first, before trying any home or alternative treatments. If you know or suspect your dog has an allergy, you do have options. There are conventional ways to treat allergies that your Veterinarian and help you with, but there are also many alternative methods that help relieve your pooches symptoms. Here are a few of the solutions you can try at home: Diet: Have you looked at what is in your dogs food lately? Just as you might have foods that you are sensitive or allergic too, your dog can too! Feeding your dog a good quality food cannot only help with allergies but also improve their health and longevity. When problem shooting food allergies the first step is to stop all traditional treats (i.e. – milk bones) and table scraps. If your dog is still reacting she may be allergic to her regular food. At this point, try the elimination diet. This means changing your dog’s food to an entirely different type which she has never eaten before. Although there are many great foods on the market, at Green Dog Wash we sell and recommend Natural Balance. Talk to us about your dogs needs and we can help find the right food for you Whatever food you choose, it must be fed for 12 weeks. If after 12 weeks your pet it still scratching, then she probably doesn’t have a food allergy. Environmental allergies: dogs can react in a way that is very similar way that we as humans do. One way to help deal with an allergy to pollen and/or house dust mites is to purchase an air purifier for your home. Bathing is very important to keep pollens and other airborne allergens from bothering you dog. An oatmeal based shampoo (such as our Shampooch line) bath with cool water – this can ease the itchiest skin. Leave the shampoo on for 10 minutes then rinse well. With the most severe allergies, bathe your pet twice weekly. Also, Calendula ointment (herbal medication) has been successfully used to relieve the itch. Apply a thin coat twice daily to affected areas.