Allergy Medication for Dogs in East Danforth
Kato Animal Hospital, located in East Danforth, provides veterinary evaluation and allergy medication for dogs experiencing allergic reactions. Canine allergies may stem from environmental, food-related, or contact triggers and often require long-term management.
Our team offers diagnostic support, treatment planning, and prescription options tailored to the individual pet’s health status. Call us now to schedule an appointment.
Signs of Allergies in Dogs
Canine allergies can present in various ways. Recognizing early signs may help prevent further discomfort.
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Persistent scratching or chewing, especially around paws, face, or ears
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Redness, inflammation, or skin lesions
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Recurring ear infections or head shaking
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Gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea
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Sneezing, watery eyes, or nasal discharge
These signs may worsen seasonally or appear after exposure to certain foods or environments. If these symptoms persist, a veterinary consultation is recommended.
Understanding Food Allergies in Dogs
Food allergies are caused by a dog's immune response to specific ingredients in their diet. Unlike food intolerances, true allergies involve an immune reaction.
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Common allergens include beef, dairy, chicken, lamb, wheat, and soy
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Symptoms may include itchy skin, chronic ear infections, and digestive upset
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Diagnosis often requires an elimination diet trial lasting 8–12 weeks
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Once the allergen is identified, a long-term diet excluding that ingredient is recommended
Our team can provide nutritional guidance and prescribe hypoallergenic or hydrolyzed protein diets when necessary.
Environmental Allergy: Year-round and Seasonal Triggers
Environmental or atopic allergies result from a dog's sensitivity to airborne particles or contact allergens.
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Common environmental triggers include pollen, mould spores, dust mites, and grasses
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Symptoms often appear seasonally but may persist year-round in indoor environments
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Dogs may lick or chew their paws, develop skin infections, or suffer from ear inflammation
Environmental allergies are managed through avoidance measures, regular bathing, and prescribed allergy medications or immunotherapy.
Allergy Medications Prescribed for Dogs
Medication may be required to manage inflammation and allergic reactions, particularly when symptoms are moderate to severe.
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Antihistamines may be used for mild symptoms, but are not effective for all dogs
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Corticosteroids (oral or injectable) reduce inflammation but are generally used short term due to side effects
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Cytopoint® is an injectable monoclonal antibody that targets itch-specific pathways and may last 4–8 weeks per dose
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Apoquel® is a daily oral medication that controls itch and inflammation without the use of steroids
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Topical treatments and medicated shampoos may provide relief for symptoms
Our veterinary team evaluates each dog's history before recommending appropriate therapy.
How Are Allergies Diagnosed in Pets?
Diagnosis of canine allergies involves a combination of clinical evaluation and diagnostic tests.
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The process starts with a full physical examination and medical history review
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Elimination diet trials are used to confirm food allergies
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Intradermal skin testing or blood testing may be used for environmental allergy assessment
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Secondary infections (bacterial or yeast) may require culture or cytology
Accurate diagnosis helps guide effective treatment and reduces the likelihood of recurrence.
When Veterinary Assessment Is Necessary
See a veterinarian if your dog’s allergy symptoms don’t get better with basic care or start affecting their comfort and daily life.
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Symptoms persisting longer than two weeks
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Evidence of skin damage, open sores, or excessive licking
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Frequent or recurring ear infections
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Sudden behavioural changes related to discomfort
Early intervention supports better long-term outcomes and minimizes the risk of chronic skin conditions.
Contact Us Today!
Kato Animal Hospital is a veterinary clinic in East Danforth that is committed to the ongoing health of pets with allergic conditions.
Please contact our team to schedule an allergy consultation or learn more about allergy medication for dogs. We aim to provide medically guided, compassionate care for dogs with allergies and other chronic conditions.
