CHULA VISTA, Calif., May 2, 2012 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- South Bay Veterinary Hospital in Chula Vista, CA is raising awareness about the importance of pet dermatology services for treating pet allergies. According to the animal vet clinic, many dogs and cats can suffer food or skin allergies. Symptoms of allergies in pets include excessive itching, scratching or biting the skin. As part of the clinic's pet dermatology services, the Chula Vista veterinarian works closely with pet owners to help determine the cause for a pet's allergy and recommend appropriate treatment.
Veterinarian Dr. Jagpal Deo is urging pet owners to watch for the signs of pet allergies. According to Dr. Deo, many dogs and cats suffer from food and skin allergies. However, unlike humans who may cough or sneeze, pets experience their allergies through itchy skin. This can lead to constant scratching and secondary infections.
"Pets who suffer from allergies can experience considerable pain and discomfort," said Dr. Deo. "Many pet owners fail to realize that constant scratching or biting of the skin is not normal behavior, but a symptom of an underlying allergy. Our vet clinic is working to raise awareness about the importance of allergy treatments so that pets receive the care that they need."
Common symptoms of allergies in pets include excessive scratching, biting and licking of the skin. Some animals may also bite or chew on their paws. By recognizing the symptoms of allergies early, pet owners can seek appropriate treatment for their pets.
According to the veterinary dermatologist, many allergens trigger similar symptoms. Pet dermatology is dedicated to diagnosing the precise cause of a pet's allergy. Common food allergen triggers include wheat, corn, soy, pork, beef and chicken ingredients in food.
Dust mites, perfumes, tree and grass pollens, mold spores, dander, feathers, cleaning products, and some rubber or plastic materials can also trigger allergies. Dogs are also extremely allergic to fleas. The bite of a single flea can cause an allergic reaction that lasts for up to three weeks.
A pet's itchy, red or irritated skin is a sign of a possible allergic reaction. If the pet continues to bite or chew on his skin, it can become raw and moist, leading to secondary bacterial and yeast infections.
"The best way to prevent secondary infections and other complications is through prompt treatment," said Dr. Deo. "A trained veterinarian can perform allergen blood testing to determine the cause. If food is suspected, an elimination diet can help isolate suspected food triggers, determining which ingredient triggers the allergic response."
In addition to allergen testing, South Bay Veterinary Hospital also performs skin biopsies and parasite testing. The animal vet clinic provides comprehensive wellness care services, including nutritional counseling, grooming, vaccinations and dental care. More information about South Bay Veterinary Hospital can be found at their website, http://mysouthbayvet.com.