Natural allergy remedies are often used in canines that won’t respond to traditional medication. These remedies are also chosen by owners that prefer a natural treatment and want to avoid the adverse effects of synthetic drugs. The natural remedies can address the dog’s allergy symptoms, but will also boost the immune system. The immune system is responsible for releasing the inflammatory cells that cause the negative reactions the dog develops to the various irritants. The natural remedies may include herbs, plants or other mineral and animal extracts that are used in homeopathic medicine.
Natural Ingredients for Dog Allergy Relief
Allergic reactions developed by dogs are a response of the immune system that is irritated by various substances in the environment or diet. Typically, dogs with a depressed immune system develop allergies. The allergies may manifest through various symptoms, including:
- sneezing
- coughing
- wheezing
- skin irritation
- itchiness
- vomiting
- diarrhea
The allergies can be managed with allergy shots, immunosuppressants or antihistamines. These treatments will have to be administered for a longer period of time and this will result in various side effects. Natural allergy relief alternatives are available and are gaining in popularity. The effects of these natural remedies will include:
- Minimizing the allergic symptoms
- Enhance the pet’s immunity and make it more resistant to the culprit irritants
Natural allergy remedies will not have side effects, not even when used for a longer period of time. Unlike the medication treatment, which will have to be administered as long as the dog displays the allergic reactions, the natural remedies may be administered in a single cure, which will boost immunity. After this initial cure, the dog will only require some periodical natural cures to maintain his immunity to the allergens.
The natural remedies are typically not recommended if the dog develops anaphylaxis, which is a severe allergic reaction to irritants. In this case, the dog needs an epinephrine shot urgently.
Herbal and Natural Remedies for Dogs
There are some herbs and plants that can be used in the form of tinctures or in teas to enhance immunity and reduce allergic reactions. These include:
- Licorice root, which is a natural anti-inflammatory, having the same effects as the synthetic corticosteroids that are recommended in dogs with allergic reactions
- Oat, which relieves itchiness
- Dried yellow dock, which can be used in rinses
Fatty acids can also be found in some natural ingredients such as fish oil. These provide immune system support and also improve the dog’s skin condition.
Homeopathic Remedies for Allergies in Dogs
Homeopathic remedies may also be used in canines with allergies. Dilutions that are applied in dogs will be formulated according to the other potential health issues the dog might have. Common ingredients used in homeopathic dilutions for allergies include:
- Arsenicum album
- Alium cepa
These dilutions may be administered for a lengthy period of time and the concentration of the various extracts used may be altered. Dogs respond to homeopathic remedies in various ways, some may experience complete relief from allergy symptoms and a stronger immunity, while others may not react at all.