Showing posts with label pet allergies. Show all posts
Showing posts with label pet allergies. Show all posts
Thursday, January 7, 2016

How Can You Help Your Child Avoid Asthma?

The BBC recently reported that, in a large Swedish study, children were less likely to suffer with asthma by the age of seven, if they were exposed to dogs and cats during their first year of life.  The researchers tracked 650,000 children and found that the risk was lowered by 13%. The effect was even greater if they lived on a farm and were exposed to even more animals. 


However, a high percentage of asthmatic children are allergic to pet dander and acquiring a pet will not help desensitize them, but could make them worse. If you do have a pet, the following may help your asthmatic or allergic child:
  • Try to keep pets out of your bedroom and where possible living area
  • Regular grooming and bathing of cats and dogs can help
  • You could try using air filters and an efficient vacuum cleaner. This might be helpful for people who have cat allergies; however the evidence on the benefit of these remains unclear
  • No breed of dog is completely "non-allergic" because they all shed dander
The study just adds more evidence that having a pet can be good for the entire family. 



BBC news: http://www.bbc.com/news/health-34697408
Wednesday, May 7, 2014

May is Pet Allergy Awareness Month

Your pet can suffer from allergic symptoms , just like people, when their immune systems start recognizing everyday substances (dust, grass, shampoo, food items) as dangerous. Despite these allergens being common and harmless to most animals, a pet with allergies can have an extreme reaction to them. Allergens can be inhaled, ingested or come in contact with your pet's skin, so as their body tries to rid itself of these substances, a variety of reactions can occur. They can show up as skin, digestive and/or respiratory symptoms.

Common Symptoms of Allergies include:
  • Itchy, red, moist or scabbed skin
  • Increased scratching
  • Itchy, runny eyes
  • Itchy back or base of tail (most commonly a flea allergy)
  • Itchy ears and ear infections
  • Sneezing
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Snoring due to an inflamed throat
  • Paw chewing/swollen paws
  • Constant licking
The first step would be to limit your pets exposure to known allergens as much as possible.  Of course it may be impossible to completely eliminate them (especially during certain times of the years). Holistic intervention can be very effective.  If you suspect your dog has a food allergy, a diet change to a hypoallergenic diet can be helpful. For skin and environmental allergies, it is important to support your pets immune system and calm the inflammation. We have had great results using the  Pet Allergy and Skin Care Package that can reduce the allergy suffering of your pet.  Also here is a great article on pet allergies http://www.askariel.com/Articles.asp?ID=256

Beebop

"Thank you so much for the allergy/skin solutions! The Pro-Aller plus the Notatum alternating with Quentans not only gave my 15 yr. old Maltese, Beebop, relief from his respiratory and skin allergy symptoms --- these amazing products helped his skin to heal completely and his beautiful hair to return so thickly, he looks like a young pup again. His ear inflammation and "gunk" cleared up, and he's happy and frolicking like his "old self". He's living up to that Beebop name and wrestling with our two other Maltese, the rescued Bambi and Thumper. For the first time in years, his little tail is back up and curled as he romps around our yard. We are eternally grateful to you and continue to recommend you and your products to all our pet-owner friends and family."
Debbie, Florida


Wednesday, January 1, 2014

New Year Resolutions for Pets

Happy New Year! It is the time of year when many of us are thinking about making resolutions. The most common resolutions for people can also apply to your pet.  So, as you begin your planning, be sure to include your pets and make 2014 the best year for both of you.


I will commit to a good nutrition plan
Just like people, good nutrition for your pet is the key to good health.  Often a  poor diet is responsible for health problems including obesity and associated diseases, skin and coat problems,  and allergies. Giving your pet a well balanced, age appropriate diet will help ensure a happy, healthy pet.  It is also important that the quantity of food that you give matches the life stage and activity level of your pet. Click here to learn more about what to look for in a good diet for your cat or dog.

I will commit to regular exercise with my pet
Regular exercise is important to keep your pet in good physical shape and reduce the risk of obesity.  It also reduces the risk of heart and joint problems.  It can be as simple as a daily walk or can be more strenuous depending on your pets physical condition. Exercise is a great way to bond with your pet and as an added benefit, an exhausted dog is less likely to engage in destructive behaviors. To exercise a cat, you could play with them, making them chase a feather or string. 

I will commit to maintaining good grooming practices 
Regular grooming including, bathing, coat maintenance,toe nail clips, and teeth brushing (or non-anesthetic cleanings). They are not just to help your pet look good, but are important to their overall health.  Yes, no one likes a smelly dog or enduring “cat breath” , but they could be an indicator of an underlying medical condition.  If the problem does not resolve with regular grooming, please seek assistance from your veterinarian.  

I will commit to getting health check ups
A visit to your veterinarian regularly is a good way to stay ahead of any potential problems. Preventive care is much less expensive than waiting to deal with a major illness or condition and it can also save your pet from suffering.  Annual laboratory tests for all pets (even young pets) provides a “baseline” which can be invaluable.  Learn more about pet health conditions.

I will commit to keeping my pet safe
Keeping pets safe is something most pet owners take for granted, but there could be hazards lurking everywhere.  Take the time to make precautions in your home and yard.  Analyze what toxic substance your pet could gain access to and what chemicals are used in the area your pets reside. Also include an assessment of physical hazards such as fencing, choking hazards, swimming pools and anything that they could get caught on or fall from.

I will commit to ensuring my pet gets enough love and attention
Life gets busy and all too often, our pets take a backseat to other demands. Try to make time for your pet---quality can be more important than quantity.  Sometimes a neighbor or family friend may be eager to help you care for your pet and pet sitters can fill in for you on a long day.  Many doggie playcare places are affordable and can take the stress off of you if you are working long hours.