Dogs can suffer from allergies to a variety of things, including food and environmental factors. Mold is a common cause of allergies in dogs. In this blog post, our Sears Veterinary Hospital vets will explain dog mold allergies and how to treat them.
About Mold Allergies In Dogs
Mold is present indoors and outdoors, and it thrives in damp, humid areas in your home, such as bathrooms and basements. Although mold grows outside all year, it multiplies more rapidly in wet conditions.
Homeowners often have to work diligently to prevent mold from spreading in places like showers and window ledges.
Dogs that inhale mold spores commonly experience itchy skin, as mold is one of the most prevalent inhalant allergens for dogs.
Dogs with this condition often have multiple inhalant allergies, which makes them more susceptible to other airborne allergens like pollen and dust mites.
Symptoms of Mold Allergies in Pets
Although humans often show mold allergies through respiratory symptoms, pets typically exhibit symptoms related to their skin.
These symptoms may include:
-
- Itching
- Redness of the skin
- Dry/ scaly skin
- Hair loss
- Ear infections
- Head shaking
- Chewing/ licking skin
Molds can also cause respiratory symptoms and diseases; however, these are less common in pets than skin-related symptoms.
Dogs Known for Skin Allergies
Some of the types of dogs that are thought to be predisposed to allergies are:
- Golden Retrievers
- Poodles
- Pugs
- Miniature Schnauzers
- Lhasa Apsos
- Shih Tzus
- Irish Setters
- German Shepherds
- Terriers (West Highland, Boston, Skye, and Scottish)
Treatment of Mold Allergies in Dogs
Immunotherapy is a long-term treatment option for mold allergies in dogs. It works by gradually exposing the dog's immune system to small amounts of the allergen, helping it build a tolerance over time. This can be beneficial because:
- Each dog is different, and immunotherapy treatments are tailored to the specific allergens affecting your dog. Your veterinarian will conduct allergy testing to determine the exact mold allergens causing the reaction.
- Immunotherapy helps desensitize your dog's immune system by introducing the allergen in controlled, small doses. This reduces the severity of allergic reactions over time.
- Unlike short-term treatments that only manage symptoms, immunotherapy addresses the root cause of the allergy, providing long-term relief.
- As immunotherapy helps build immunity, your dog may require fewer medications to manage their symptoms, reducing potential side effects and improving overall health.
At Sears Veterinary Hospital, we don't offer immunotherapy services, but we can always conduct wellness exams on your dog and refer you to a dermatologist for treatment.
Other Treatment of Mold Allergies in Dogs
The treatment for mold allergy may involve many elements, including:
Frequent Bathing
To soothe the itching, your pet should be shampooed with a hypoallergenic product in lukewarm water (avoid hot water as it may irritate the skin).
Inflammation Therapy
Medications such as corticosteroids and antihistamines can help reduce inflammation. Topical creams can relieve redness, and Omega 3 supplements may be prescribed to enhance the body's response to the medication.
Hyposensitization
Allergen injections of a gradually increasing dosage are administered to help your dog develop tolerance to mold.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.