Stop an Allergic Reaction in a Dog

An unexpected allergic reaction in a dog can be a bit frightening. Even though it is scary it doesn't always mean your dog needs to be rushed to the vet the moment you see the reaction.

An allergic reaction can happen quickly and unexpectedly from just a normal jaunt in your backyard or a even a walk around your house. Anything from bugs, plants, landscaping to supplies around the house can cause an allergic reaction. The reactions can be anywhere from an itchy red rash to a terrifying puffy face.

A typical over the counter anti-histamine, called Diphenhydramine, may be all that is needed to help your dogs allergic reaction. Diphenhydramine is also sold as the name brand Benadryl, as well as various other generic brands. When searching for an anti-histamine make sure you don't give your dog a multi-symptom anti-histamine formula, like with an added decongestant or other symptom relief your dog doesn't need. Make sure you read the label to make sure it has only the necessary active ingredient. Be sure you know your dogs weight to give the proper dose. Give your dog 0.5 mg of Diphenhydramine/Benadryl per pound weight of your dog. Give no more than once every 8 hours as needed.

After you give the anti-histamine make sure you give your dog a bath. If the allergic reaction was caused by a plant or something airborne you want to make sure the allergen is not still on your dogs fur or skin. If the allergen is still on your dog he will continue to have an allergic reaction until it is removed. Bathe your dog well using a natural non-allergenic dog shampoo or a mild dish detergent.

If your dog gets worse at any time or if he or she does not improve within a few hours you should take your dog to the vet. If at anytime your dog has trouble breathing take him to the vet right away. If he is having a really hard time breathing you don't want to take the chance trying to wait for an anti-histamine to work.

Make sure you talk to your dogs veterinarian to make sure diphenhydramine is OK for your dog. Dogs with high blood pressure, glaucoma and other health issues should not use diphenhydramine. Be sure to talk to your vet if your dog has any health condition.

If possible try to find the allergen that caused the reaction. Try to remember where your dog was before it happened, backyard, kitchen, etc. If it is as simple as a plant in your landscaping or a household supply you can easily block of the area of your yard or refrain from using the product. If it ends up being a bug it is a bit harder to solve since bugs have a mind of their own and go as they please in their small little world. Adding bug repellent products to your yard could help or natural bug repellent shampoos may also help prevent your dog from another allergic reaction.

Sources:

Diphenhydramine Benadryl

Pet Place - Allergic Reaction in Dogs