SAN DIEGO, July 8, 2012 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- According to Point Loma veterinarian Dr. Mariann Rozsa, companion animals can suffer from the same seasonal allergies that plague humans. Pets may experience allergies due to pollen, mites and mold. Symptoms of allergies in animals include excessive itching and scratching. Dr. Rozsa and fellow veterinarian Dr. Jagpal Deo are raising awareness about the importance of treating seasonal allergies in pets in order to avoid secondary skin infections. Intradermal testing at a vet clinic can help determine the cause for allergy symptoms and proper treatment.
Point Loma veterinary dermatologists Dr. Mariann Rozsa and Dr. Jagpal Deo are raising awareness about seasonal allergies in companion animals. According to the veterinarians, dogs and cats can suffer from hay fever and other seasonal allergens that also affect humans. The vets' practice, Bayside Veterinary Hospital, provides comprehensive pet care services, including pet dermatology and allergen testing.
"A seasonal allergy can be painful and frustrating for pets," said Dr. Rozsa. "While humans tend to sneeze, cough or suffer from congestion, cats and dogs suffer from itchy skin. This can lead to excessive scratching and secondary skin infections. If you suspect that your pet is struggling with an allergy, prompt treatment can help provide relief while preventing further health complications."
Dr. Rozsa and Dr. Deo provide allergy testing for pets at their Point Loma vet clinic. According to the veterinarians, many allergens can cause similar symptoms in companion animals. Testing helps determine the exact allergen trigger. Seasonal allergy symptoms in animals include itching and scratching. Pets may bite their fur or gnaw at paws.
"Initially, it may be difficult for a pet owner to distinguish between normal grooming and scratching behavior that is in response to an allergic reaction," said Dr. Deo. "A cat that vomits hairballs, for example, may be over-grooming due to an allergy."
Dr. Rozsa cautioned that without proper treatment, excessive scratching and itching can lead to secondary skin infections in cats and dogs.
"Dander, red bumps and scabs on the skin are all signs of a secondary infection," said Dr. Rozsa. "If these symptoms are present, it is absolutely critical that pets receive immediate care before the infection worsens."
The veterinary dermatologists recommend testing to determine the specific cause for a pet's allergy. This allergen skin test measures a pet's sensitivity to a variety of environmental allergens, including mold, pollen, and mites.
"Depending on the test results, we may recommend allergy shots or oral drops to help alleviate symptom severity," said Dr. Deo. "Just like with humans, it is not possible to 'cure' an allergy. Instead, our goal is to manage symptoms and reduce unfavorable reactions. This provides considerable relief for pets and also minimizes the risk of secondary skin infections."
In addition to allergen testing, the vet clinic provides comprehensive pet care services including wellness exams, surgical care, and emergency care.