Pet Allergies

Pets often are diagnosed with “allergies”. The causes of pet allergies vary from food-induced, to environmental (seasonal), to insect bites and other pests like fleas, ticks, and mites. Many times, the reaction is a one-time occurrence. However, some pets may have a predisposition to developing chronic reactions, and a multi-factor effect from many of these causes contribute to making the situation long-term and frustrating to the pet owner.
The allergic reaction may initially present itself as redness or a “rash” or the pet chewing and scratching an area of the body severely enough to make it bleed. Parts of the body commonly having some of these reactions are the ears, the tail base, under the tail in the perineum, and “hot spots” anywhere on the body.
Identification of the causes is important and allergy testing is sometimes needed to provide the proper treatment. It is also important to get the condition under control before permanent changes and scarring occur, especially when the ear canal is involved.
If you are not sure, always have your pet examined. VIP considers it a privilege to have people trust us with their pets. We are dedicated to providing the latest in veterinary medical and surgical techniques and care with the purpose of keeping pets healthy.
As everybody gets in the spirit of the holiday season, we must not forget that our pets may think all the goodies that become available during this time, is also for them to enjoy. Likewise, after the holidays, many foods are still around, and care should be taken to keep pets safe.
Many candies are still out where pets can get to them. We’ve seen a few cases of pets eating large quantities of chocolates, wrappers and all. In a small dog, this can have some serious consequences if not taken care of quickly. The main concern is the effect on the heart. If brought to the veterinarian soon after ingestion, vomiting can be induced, and other medication given to get the pet out of danger.
With many meals, the main concern is pets eating a lot of turkey, ham, etc., and sometimes even the bones, which have the risk of obstruction or perforation of the intestinal tract. Other complications that arise from eating large amounts of protein (meat) are gastroenteritis, including pancreatitis and other potentially life-threatening problems. Again, as soon as possible, get your pet to the veterinarian so that the situation can be controlled, and further complications prevented. In addition to the amount consumed, the condiments (e.g., onions), grease, can seriously affect your pet. We have also seen some pets for these problems.
As with any other time, just a word of caution – to always look out for the little ones (kids and pets alike), who only want some of what the rest of us are having.
We are open during this time of COVID-19 . We limit to essential appointments meaning if your pet has a critical or urgent matter please call us. We are practicing curbside care. We will come outside and pick up your pet from your vehicle, while you remain and stay inside your car. We are asking that any routine visits be put off till later and we get a better go ahead of back to normal.
Have happy holiday’s and enjoy being with your family.
V.I.P. Veterinary Services is located at 26111 Bouquet Canyon Rd., #D-5 in Santa Clarita. For more information, please call 661-222-7387.