{"id":1189,"date":"2022-09-07T21:54:06","date_gmt":"2022-09-07T21:54:06","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.bluffspetclinic.com\/blog\/?p=1189"},"modified":"2022-09-07T21:54:07","modified_gmt":"2022-09-07T21:54:07","slug":"allergy-testing-for-dogs-saves-more-than-time-and-money","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.bluffspetclinic.com\/blog\/allergy-testing-for-dogs-saves-more-than-time-and-money\/","title":{"rendered":"Allergy Testing for Dogs Saves More than Time and Money"},"content":{"rendered":"
\n
\"A<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

There\u2019s nothing worse than being itchy, except perhaps being itchy and not knowing what\u2019s causing dermatological distress. Atopic dermatitis, typically caused by inhaling certain allergens like dust, pollen, or mold, can be formally diagnosed with allergy testing. A major boon for itchy pets, allergy testing for dogs can lead to the development of an effective, long-lasting treatment plan. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Known Triggers<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Allergy testing for dogs generally follows the examination and treatment of a known atopy (as well as the exclusion of other known diseases of the skin). While it is beneficial to design therapies and treatments to decrease symptoms, allergy testing for dogs is not a reliable diagnostic for food allergens. Elimination or hypoallergenic diets can help dogs cope with allergens in their food.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Testing at The Bluffs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

We conduct blood (serum) tests for allergies at our hospital. This involves taking a blood sample from a dog for laboratory testing. The tests look for allergen-specific antibodies against a variety of potential environmental allergens known to cause or exacerbate atopic dermatitis. A high number of antibodies suggests that an animal\u2019s body has formed an allergic response to them. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

This type of allergy testing for dogs<\/a> is easy, convenient, and relatively painless. In contrast with other types of testing, it does not require any changes to the diet or medications prior to the test. However, results may uncover numerous possible allergens that are close to impossible to eliminate from a dog\u2019s environment. We can use the information from allergy testing to create highly-customized wellness plans that bolster tolerance and possible immunity to environmental allergens.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

An Improvement Scenario<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Dogs with allergies don\u2019t have an easy time coping with symptoms<\/a>, especially if they suffer from severe itching of the skin<\/a>. Skin conditions are among the most common reasons we see dogs between wellness exams. Once we are able to zero-in on the possible allergens creating allergic reactions, we can customize a treatment plan to soothe itching and pain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Allergy Testing For Dogs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When should dog owners consider allergy testing?<\/p>\n\n\n\n