Allergic skin disease Unfortunately allergic skin disease is a common problem in dogs. Like human allergies such as asthma, hayfever and eczema allergic skin disease is usually a problem that recurrs and can be CONTROLLED rather than CURED. What causes the allergic skin disease? The causes are many and will vary from animal to animal but include fleas (allergy to flea bites is the number 1 cause in dogs and cats) plants and pollens mosquitoes dust mites reaction to some foods. How do we control allergic skin disease? The specific treatment will vary but may include antihistamines and cortisone to reduce the itching reaction, antibiotics if there is any secondary infection present. Sometimes a special diet is indicated and often special medicated shampoos can help. It is possible in some cases to refer your pet to a specialist veterinary dermatologist for testing and desensitisation for its allergies. Good flea control is always essential. Allergic skin disease can be frustrating for you and your pet but remember we are here to help so please call us if you have any questions.

Note: The information in this document is supplied for use in combination with Burke Road Veterinarian Clinic consultation only and should not be relied upon as veterinary medical advice applicable to your own circumstances. Accordingly, you should not act on the basis of this information without seeking veterinary medical advice or other expert assistance at Burke Road Veterinary Clinic or other veterinarian clinic. www.burkeroadvet.com 529 Burke Road Camberwell Victoria 3124 Telephone: 9822 3268 Facsimile: 9822 6216 Email: theteam@burkeroadvet.com Dr Cathy Jennings BVSc (Hons) MRCVS Dr Tina Missen BVSc MRCVS Dr Donna Pyke BVSc (Hons) MACVS (surg) IVAS Dr Katrina Lange BVSc Hours: 8.00 am to 7.30 pm Monday to Friday 8.00 am to 3.00 pm Saturday 9.00 am to 12.00 am Sunday