Immunotherapy for Dogs

Having a dog with allergies is a real nightmare especially when nothing seems to work, even the prescription medication. It’s tough to see your little one suffer, but fret not, there is something that may help.

Have you considered immunotherapy or allergy shots?

How does it work?

Allergy shots start with testing for allergies. This means finding out what your dog is allergic to, then injecting a serum that desensitizes your dog to the allergen. This is called Allergen-specific immunotherapy (ASIT) and includes giving small doses of an allergen to build a tolerance to it. This is the only way to properly treat allergies in dogs as medication only addresses the symptoms of allergies.

Allergy testing

Allergy testing is done via intradermal allergy tests (IDAT) otherwise known as skin testing, and serology, or blood testing. Skin testing is widely used as it gives more accurate, live clinical reactions.

Allergy shots

The earlier your dog receives allergy shots is the better for both of you. This is a lifelong condition, and it will only be reduced once immunotherapy begins. Note that this is not the same as cytopoint allergy shots which are a short-term anti-itch solution that only lasts four to eight weeks. Immunotherapy is meant to last for a lifetime.

Side effects

Immunotherapy does not have a lot of side effects. The most common side effect is an increase in itchiness, but that is a sign that the shot is working, and will disappear within a few hours to a few days.

In extreme cases, allergy shots can lead to moderate anaphylaxis, vomiting, lethargy, facial swelling, and hives.

Efficacy

Allergy shots are effective for two reasons. One, they can solve your dog’s allergy issues completely. Two, even if they are not solved, the symptoms are drastically reduced. It usually starts working at around three months to a year after the shot. Your vet may also recommend sublingual immunotherapy (SLT), i.e an oral pill given under the tongue daily. Note that it is not a quick fix and will take some time. During this time, you are encouraged to continue using medication to address allergy symptoms.

Cost

Immunotherapy for dogs is not cheap. However, it is worth it in the long run. Check to see if your insurance covers these shots.