Our poodle canine friends are valuable contributions to our families. They can, however, be as prone toward allergies, as humans are. Allergies can come from external or internal sources and can manifest in a variety of symptoms and side effects. Since your poodle's comfort is important, it is worthwhile to understand the allergy causes and the resolution.
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Contact Allergens
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There are a variety of contact irritants that can cause allergic reactions in poodles. It can be rooted in a bacterial source, food allergies, house dust, plastic, rubber, wood, nylon, pollen or grass. They can also have allergic reactions caused from carpeting, their dog beds or the cleaning solution that is used on them. Poodles are particularly sensitive to shampoo.
Flea Allergen
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Fleas can be particularly detrimental and aggravating for poodles. Sometimes one bite can result in intense aggravation and possible infection. If poodles happen to be allergic to the flea's saliva, then they could be apt to have a serious allergic episode. A consult with the vet would be necessary, if the reaction is severe enough to require a steroid shot to counteract the itching and swelling.
In order to relieve the itching, Vitamin E oil or an oatmeal shampoo can be used to reduce the side effects, along with anti-flea products.
Symptoms
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The evidence of allergies is recognized by several side effects. The first noticeable sign will be itching that can range from mild to intense. The scratching can then lead to sores on the poodle's skin. There can also be eye and nasal discharge. There is always a chance for infection at that point. It would be worthwhile to take the poodle to the vet for a consult and possible necessary medication.
Remedies
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For your poodle's comfort, it may be necessary to use a hypoallergenic laundry detergent that does not have a fragrance. Hypoallergenic shampoo and conditioner may also be beneficial. Using a water steam cleaner rather than the normal carpet cleaner could be helpful, too. In addition, be certain to thoroughly clean the bathing area before their baths to remove remnants of human soap products. Vitamin E may be applied to help with the symptoms of itchy, dry skin after the infection has subsided.
Expectations
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Typically, if a poodle has allergies, it does not manifest itself in the form of symptoms until after reoccurring exposure. Symptoms do not usually happen until they are 1 to 3 years old, or as old as 8 years of age. As time goes on, more allergies can be generated and the severity level can increase.
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