Today's article on The Labrador Site takes a look at dealing with canine allergies. Common Allergies in Labrador Retrievers
Wow....this has been my worst nightmare since my almost 8 yr. old yellow lab was 2.5 yrs. old. It has only been a little more than a year that a miracle drug called atopica has been been on the market. The worst part is that so many dogs have these contact allergies that supply and demand was not met and the manufacturer's supply was exhausted. Only due to the fact that another dog went off the drug that Riley has been on it daily for over 6 months now. But anyone who would like to try it the manufacturer now has the supply and demand under control. It only takes a physical and blood work say once a year, no side effects and no itching, scratching or biting. It is truly a miracle drug. We started with food allergy elimination, then allergy testing at a big university veterinary hospital, injections for one year of allergens to build up Riley's immunity, neutering, cyclosporine with side effects, with constant monitoring of the drug, surgery to remove skin growth over the incisors ( a side effect) and Riley still had episodes during the allergy season spring and fall in particular. Because of the misery the allergies caused Riley's fear turned into aggression toward his caregivers and ended up in behavioral therapy having to be put on doggy prozac. I'm telling you it was my worst nightmare. I feel for anyone who has to see the effects of what these skin allergies can cause, the grief and heartache for the pet's owner and the pet themselves. Would like to hear what other owners have done without this miracle drug Atopica.
