Jun 11, 2008 6:15 pm US/Central
HealthWatch: Allergies & Your 4-Legged Friends
Pets May Suffer Equally From Nature's Allergens
NEW YORK (CBS) ―
Depending on your allergy triggers, this time of year means relief for some, and discomfort for others. And it's not just humans who are affected.
CBS station WCBS-TV in New York City's Dr. Holly Phillips joins us with how the pollen can take a toll on our four-legged companions as well.
They say pets keep you company in every facet of life. If you've got coughing, sneezing and watery eyes right now, your furry friend may be able to sympathize.
Dogs love to frolic outside, but for some pooches, it's not all fun and games.
Eric Goebelbecker's pooch, "Caffeine," had a persistent rash for two years. When belly rubs and antihistamines stopped soothing the itch, Goebelbecker had his vet run some tests.
"She's allergic to quite a few local trees, grass, including Kentucky blue grass, which would be our lawn, several varieties of fungi and mushrooms, mice, cockroaches, fleas and dust.
"Caffeine's" issue is not rare. Animals are affected by the same seasonal allergens as humans. In the spring, tree pollen predominates. Summertime ushers in grass pollen and the fall brings weed pollen.
"Most allergies are acquired when they get exposed to something long enough and it starts, the body overreacts," said Veterinarian Dr. Gregg Takashima.
The tell-tale signs are hard to miss. It starts with incessant scratching or licking of the skin which can leave behind open sores or a rash.
"They inject small amounts of allergens on the skin of a shaved flank of an animal and see how much of it reacts," said Dr. Takashima.
Although the doses may be different, treatment is virtually identical to humans: antihistamines, cortical steroids, baths, eye drops.
There are even animal allergy shots. "Caffeine" is getting a combination treatment.
"The prescription medication may be indefinite. The shots could very well be for the rest of her life," said Dr. Takashima.
Research into alternative treatments for allergies is ongoing in both animals and humans. Grape seed extract and the Eurpean herb "butterbur" have shown promising results. Acupuncture can also provide relief for some.
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