Ask the Vet with Dr. Phil Zeltzman
September 1, 2011 in Ask the Vet, Get Local, Health & Wellness, Philadelphia, September 2011 by Tails Magazine
Q: It seems my kids aren’t the only ones sneezing and wheezing as the school year starts. Our Pug, Buddy, is scratching and sneezing more often at this time of year. Could he be suffering from seasonal allergies, and if so, how do we treat them?
A: Scratching is a common sign of allergies, as are licking and chewing the skin. Sneezing can be due to allergies or could be related to Buddy’s flat face. It also could be a condition called reverse sneezing, common in Pugs. Some skin allergies are common in the spring and summertime, such as tree, grass, and weed pollens, as well as flea saliva. Others can be seen year ‘round, like allergies to food, house dust mites, and human dander. It sounds like Buddy could have seasonal allergies, and the best way to confirm your suspicion is for your vet to do a physical exam and start the diagnostic process. If allergies are confirmed, then there are many options, depending on the actual cause. Treatments go from pills to shots, parasite control, and allergy vaccines. Irritated skin can become infected, so antibiotics may be recommended, as well. In complicated situations, you may be referred to a board-certified dermatologist.
ABOUT the Vet
Dr. Phil Zeltzman is a mobile, board-certified surgeon near Allentown, PA (www.DrPhilZeltzman.com). He is the co-author of Walk a Hound, Lose a Pound: How You and Your Dog Can Lose Weight, Stay Fit, and Have Fun Together (www.WalkAHound.com).
