Allergies: A Multimodal Approach

Allergies: A Multimodal Approach (See attachment for full presentation)

Our pets are exposed to all types of allergens every day that can affect their skin, causing discomfort, pain and secondary effects like bumps, redness and wounds. Our skin barrier is an important part of fighting allergens, but the relationship between maintaining the skin barrier and responses to allergen must work together. Atopic Dermatitis (AD) is a vicious cycle and hard to control, making it frustrating for both clients and veterinarians. The immune system is complex and a break in it can contribute to AD caused by allergens. Once the skin barrier is compromised, it results in redness, itchiness, and pain causing the pet to lick and bite causing self-trauma.                                     

Unfortunately, there is not a quick fix and sometimes trial and error, which depends on the severity of the patient’s situation. The best way to tackle allergens and AD can include allergy testing, change of diet and adding supplements along with a veterinarian’s normal AD regiment. Understanding all of these will help to determine the best treatment plan.

Specialty diets are often a quick way to start, choosing one specific to allergies and having those hydrolyzed proteins. Remember when using specialty diets, especially grain-free, they can lack some essential nutritional components that will need additionally supplemented.

Supplements can help to support the skin barrier, maintain hydration and repair those skin layers from the inside out. Educating yourself on these individual ingredients and products will help you to pick the best. Know that when picking a supplement, it is important to know there is science to back it up and the quality meets standards.

Important to remember, a muti-model approach to tackling allergens, is the best route! Pharmaceuticals are often used in conjunction with diet and supplements with the hope to taper down the pharmaceutical and maintain with supplements and diet long-term.  

Vets, use your vet techs! Make sure they are knowledgeable about specialty diets and supplements as they can suggest and educate our clients for you, which takes a very time-consuming task off you!

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For the entire presentation, please see attachment.

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Any questions please reach out to Sarah Baughman, BS, LVT

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