Does your pet have allergies? How can you help?

Allergies in pets, just like in humans, cannot be “cured,” according to the veterinarians at Petland.

Allergies require treatment as needed for a pet's entire life. In pets, allergies generally fall into three major categories — flea allergy, inhalant allergy, or food allergy — and combinations thereof.

Flea allergies are the most common and cause about 75 to 80 percent of the itching, skin irritation and hair loss in dogs and cats. Flea allergic animals should be protected by long acting adult flea control products such as Frontline for the entire flea season, basically spring to fall.

Occasionally, pets may require antihistamines, cortisone injections or pills distributed by a licensed veterinarian to help relieve skin irritation.

Inhalant allergies account for about 15 to 20 percent of the allergies in pets. This category includes allergies to airborne sources such as ragweed, grasses, pollens, molds, and dust.

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Pets with this type of allergy typically lick their feet, rub their faces, and get rashes on their bellies. They also may get ear infections. Symptoms are usually seasonal.

Again, antihistamines, cortisone and antibiotics, issued by a veterinarian, can be helpful in treating seasonal outbreaks. Non-stop, year-round allergies in this category may require shots for desensitization and a long-term solution.

Food allergies affect about 10 percent of pets. Symptoms often include ear infections, red skin and itching. The only way to find out if the pet is allergic to a food is to conduct a feeding trial with a hypoallergenic diet.

Long-term management means feeding foods that don't cause the allergic symptoms.

Petland carries a variety of premium pet foods that can aid in reducing or eliminating many allergy symptoms, for example, foods that have alternative protein sources like fish and duck, and foods with grain-free formulas.

With a proper veterinary diagnosis and proper care, Petland says a pet can live a normal life even with allergies.