Allergy is an inherited, lifelong disease affecting the immune systems of up to 30% of the pet population. Allergies are chronic and progressive, meaning they will worsen over time if left untreated.

When your pet’s immune system overreacts to a specific allergen, it causes the production of antibodies called immunoglobulin E, or IgE. IgE antibodies then coat and activate cells that release histamine and other chemicals, resulting in an allergic reaction.

A few common symptoms of allergies that your pet may exhibit include:

• Excessive licking, chewing, rubbing, or scratching

• Hair loss

• Recurrent ear problems

• Itchy or watery eyes

Hypo-sensitization (also called allergen-specific immunotherapy) is the gold standard of medical treatment for some types of allergies. It is the only treatment that stops an allergy from progressing, by making the immune system less sensitive, or totally insensitive, to the allergens that trigger the allergic reaction. The treatment sets are custom built based on each patient’s allergy profile, containing allergenic extract designed to gradually introduce your patient’s immune system to the offending allergens and increasing their tolerance. It is available in sublingual oral spray or subcutaneous injections.

To learn more about allergen-specific immunotherapy: https://nextmune.com/us/allergy-treatment/

Here at the Animal Clinic of Pinckney, we have a variety of options to help provide relief to your pet. To discuss which option might be best for your pet, call (734) 878-0290 to schedule an appointment!