Pets Get Allergies
Too! How To Help Them By Kemberly Richardson
Itching, sneezing, wheezing: Allergies are enough to drive a person...
or a pet wild. Here are tips that might make your dog or cat a whole
lot more comfortable every allergy season, from Eyewitness News' Kemberly
Richardson.
Pet Owner: "She is allergic to trees, grasses, pollen, dust,
cats and wool."
"She" is a 3-year-old terrier and like other patients in
the vet's office is a little nervous about seeing the doctor. They
are all here because they all suffer from allergies.
Kirsten Hamilton, Pet Owner: "Her eyes were watering like a human's,
sneezing and things like that."
That is where Dr. Heather Peikes comes in. She is the only board certified
veterinary dermatologist in Manhattan. There are about 130 nationwide.
Dr. Heather Peikes, Animal Allergy and Dermatology: "A lot of
people tell me they're embarrassed to say they are going to dermatologist
but when they see the difference it makes they're really glad they
did."
Veterinarian: "We're going to take off your shirt so look under
your skin."
Star's allergies are so bad, she wears a sweater to protect her skin.
About a year ago her owner Jennifer noticed the pint-sized pup was
scratching a lot and biting her coat. One vet prescribed antibiotics
that didn't work, so she brought the terrier to Dr. Peikes.
Jennifer Patt, Pet Owner: "She is much more much happier and
seems under control a lot better."
Most people don't realize their pets are suffering from allergies.
Any problems with your dog or cat's skin should be a red flag. Normally,
coughing and unusual odors are also warning signs.
Those are the symptoms. However, what about the treatment? They're
actually similar to things we take: shots, skins cream and antihistamine
are just what the doctor ordered.
The causes can really vary, from dust mites to even certain foods
like beef.
Dr. Peikes: "People say, 'I switched the dog food..' but what
about the treats you are giving? And the flavored foods?"
Dr. Peikes sees about 10 patients each day, and most will remain under
her care for life. But those like Star will now have much more comfortable
dog years.
