We’ve learned that steroids long term can be bad, and then we turned to Apoquel, the “miracle” drug for allergies. But have you looked at the package insert or done a little research?
This is an immune suppressant that in order to work must be given daily.
I remember when this drug was new to the public. Veterinary clinics were put on a list and only allowed to purchase a certain amount each month as they kept running out. News traveled fast and everyone wanted it, no more wondering what caused the itch. Just when and how much Apoquel they could give.
Giving relief doesn’t always resolve the problem.
I agree there are some situations where we need drugs to give us relief for a period of time to allow healing, but covering up problems rather than responding to them can sometimes lead to even more problems.
Steroids have been proven harmful to health and thinning of bones.
Now that steroids aren’t always as effective, so many have turned to Apoquel. But remember, fixing the itch isn’t fixing the problem.
Drugs can be harmful, especially when its long term. This is where routine bloodwork becomes necessary.
It’s been said that a drug like Apoquel long term can suppress the immune system, leaving your pet vulnerable to other illness’.
Some reports claim risks when using the drug.
Look to the FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) when doing your research. While there are guidelines to follow dispensing these drugs, any false or misleading representation for use of them will be reported or tracked through the FDA.
Prednisone is another commonly used drug to treat allergies among other illness’, and can help manage a real problem. But like any steroid can become harmful when used for a long period of time.
Vetinfo.com gives good insight on Predsnisone- What it is, how it’s used, and gives insight on both short and long term side effects.
Finding the root of the problem
When we have allergies of our own we do our research and prevent contact with the cause, and of course treat at times.
We should all want to do the same for our pets.
Food
Grass
Pollen
Fleas
Dust mites
Mold spores
Atopic dermatitis, a more chronic skin irritation
These are all sources of allergies that can cause itching leading to severe irritations, infections, hot spots, and even constant ear infections.
Yes, sometimes veterinarians will approve Benadryl for some situations, but some allergies are just too severe or long term.
And to see them constantly itching affects us too! We love our pets, so when they experience discomfort, so do we.
Some problems can be easy to solve when reocurring.
For my dog Tyson, it was the berries falling from the ficus tree during late summer. He would get them on his paws as he stepped through the garden.
Licking the paws became constant til the hair was gone. I started to wash his paws in the evening during this time, and sweeping the berries. It hasn’t occurred for the last three years. Although this wasn’t as severe as some.
Exam and bloodwork can help find the root of the problem, leading to the right treatment necessary to resolve the issue.
Home remedies and treatment.
There are many home remedies you can try that might relieve the itch at home. Luckily mine was an easy fix, I’m sure there are so many others.
A simple oatmeal bath could help soothe the skin. Or in more severe cases a medicated bath, to provide a little anti itch and skin comfort.
What you will need for an oatmeal bath…..
Plain raw oatmeal (No sugar, flavor, or additives.
1 Coffee grinder
Non slip mat
1 Dog 🙂
*Grind oatmeal into 1 cup fine powder.
*Fill tub with lukewarm water. just enough water to cover the legs of your dog. Cooler water if very itchy (Never too hot or too cold).
*Use the non slip mat, as oatmeal will make things slippery.
*Add oatmeal powder, swirl around until completely dissolved.
Soak your dog for 15 minutes, massaging into the coat down to the skin.
When done, lightly rinse off any loose oatmeal, so it doesnt dry and irritate the skin.
Always choose one method for bathing, and consult a veterinarian to know just how often to bathe as too much bathing could lead to more irritated skin.
A veterinarian can also help determine the cause or underlying condition to help find something suitable for your pet.
If you find that bathing your pet is somewhat difficult, chlorhexadine/keto wipes work great for immediate soothing and relief of itchy skin. Something I have used, and found very effective on my pets in the past.
But don’t stop there. Even trying different foods can help, as it might be a food allergy. There are some great diets out there you can try.
Food allergies and how to approach them is a process that takes time and dedication, as you have to slowly introduce new foods, removing certain proteins, preservatives, or starch to find what might be the cause..
Do cats get food allergies? Yes they do!
Avodermnatural.com goes into detail about common food allergies in cats.
Allergy testing can be costly, but so are long term visits to the vet with routine blood work, prescriptions and treatment.
Without a doubt prescriptions are necessary to getting your pet some relief from a great deal of discomfort, skin irritations, or lesions from severe allergies. But when it comes to long term steroids and other prescriptions, try taking another approach. Rather than blocking the itch, get to the source.
Remember there are many Spring and Summers ahead!