People with seasonal allergies or a stuffy nose may reach for Claritin. The same medication, marketed under the generic name loratadine, is available for dogs. This long-acting antihistamine is generally well-tolerated by dogs, with few side effects. The drug represents a departure from earlier antihistamines, as it doesn't cause drowsiness. It should not be given to pregnant or nursing dogs. Do not use the Claritin-D formulation on dogs, as it also contains pseudoephedrine. Avoid giving loratadine to dogs with known liver or kidney ailments.
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Atopic Canine Dermatitis
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Dogs constantly scratching, biting and licking themselves may suffer from allergic skin disease. Since many conditions cause these reactions, take the dog to the vet for testing and diagnosis. If the verdict is atopic canine dermatitis, a variety of medications may help alleviate the symptoms and suffering. According to the Canadian Veterinary Journal, atopic canine dermatitis is usually a lifelong disease, but with proper treatment dogs can live comfortably. Antihistamines such as loratadine are part of the arsenal to relieve inflammation, along with dietary changes, fat supplementation, and anti-inflammatories.
Reaction to Vaccines
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Most dogs go to the vet annually for their checkup and shots. Immunizations, while protecting dogs from serious diseases, act by immune system stimulation. Some dogs react to routine vaccinations, and become lethargic or experience sore muscles or swelling at the injection site. In a worst case scenario, they may go into anaphylactic shock. If the vet knows that a dog is subject to vaccine reactions, loratadine may be given ahead of time to avoid the issue of swelling.
Mast Cell Tumors
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Mast cell tumors result when mast cells group together. Such tumors are common in dogs, and often found in breeds such as boxers, Labrador and golden retrievers, and cocker spaniels. The mast cell is part of the body's immune defense, designed to protect against parasites. They are found in skin, the intestines, and respiratory tract. When things go awry and tumors form, the prognosis ranges from benign to grave, depending on the staging and location of the tumor. For higher grade tumors, treatment is typical for that of any cancer--surgery, radiation and chemotherapy. Loratadine is given when the tumor releases granules that increase inflammation.
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