Dr. Michael Fox / Pet Doctor, The Miami Herald (USA), 8/13/2006
Q:I have a Great Pyrenees/golden retriever mix with allergy problems. I've taken him to two vets. One suggested it was an outdoor allergy, and the other mentioned food allergies. He scratches day and night in the hindquarters, legs, feet, tail and near his ears. His skin is pink and irritated, and he is losing hair…
A:Your poor dog will get only temporary relief from the prednisone, and then his thirst and appetite will increase, along with the possibility of diabetes and other health problems -- including weakening of his immune system, which is already impaired because of his allergy.
I would suggest feeding your dog a simple, homemade diet (see my website at tedeboy.tripod.com/drmichaelwfox) or a hypoallergenic diet, like venison and potato. Try antihistamine pills as a safer alternative to prednisone. Put cotton sheets (laundered in hot water only) over his sleeping and resting places. A source-contact allergy may be at the root of the problem. An air filter and ionizer may also help. Some dogs suffering from seasonal allergies show considerable improvement when given a daily teaspoon of honey and bee pollen that is produced locally.
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