Dog allergies are caused by a negative response of a deficient immune system. There are a lot of treatment options that will reduce the allergy symptoms; however, it is also important to strengthen the pet’s immunity to reduce the allergic reactions. Supplements are recommended for dog allergy relief offering an immunity boost and helping with a faster recovery of the skin.
Omega Fatty Acids
Omega fatty acids are recommended to strengthen the dog’s immune system. These fatty acids are polyunsaturated fats. For dogs with allergies, vets recommend supplements of omega 3 and 6 fatty acids.
Omega 3 fatty acids may relieve symptoms such as swelling and skin itchiness and rashes, while omega 6 fatty acids may be used to improve the dog’s skin and coat quality.
The omega fatty acids may be present in dog food (i.e. tuna, salmon or fish oils), however, when the dog displays allergic symptoms, he needs an extra dose of omega 3 and 6 fatty acids and supplements may be more recommended.
If taken in excess, omega 3 and 6 fatty acids may cause side effects such as loose stool or diarrhea. Consult your vet to get the right dosage for these supplements.
Vitamins
Vitamins may also reduce the allergic reactions in dogs. The vitamins may help the dog to recover from the effects of allergies. Allergies cause severe itching, dry and flaky skin and the vitamins may help getting a normal skin. The most common vitamins prescribed for canines include vitamin A, B, C and E.
Vitamin A is a useful antioxidant, similar to beta carotene. The vitamin may be administrated orally as a pill or through liquid form, sprinkled on the dog’s food.
The vitamin B complex is particularly helpful for dogs with allergies. These vitamins will give a boost to the immune system and will also make the dog’s skin healthier. Get a vitamin B complex vitamin which contains all the essential B vitamins. Your vet may recommend the administration of a particular B vitamin only. The vitamin B complex should be administered orally, twice per day.
Vitamin C may delay the secretion of histamines. In allergic dogs, the release of histamines in excess is responsible for the occurrence of the allergy symptoms. Research has shown that vitamin C may delay or reduce the production of histamines. In addition, vitamin C is a great antioxidant, which will be helpful for the dog’s immune system.
Vitamin E is also a supplement with antioxidant effects and an immunity booster. In addition, vitamin E may also reduce symptoms such as swelling and skin irritations.
An allergic dog may get one or several of these vitamins; there are also vitamin complexes available for canines.
Consult your vet to recommend you the right vitamins for your dog. It is important to know that some of these vitamins (i.e. vitamin A and E) are fat soluble vitamins, which means that an overdose may cause toxicity in dogs. The other vitamins (B and C) may be eliminated through urine if taken in excess.