It can be disheartening to watch your dog suffer with the continuous scratching, recurrent ear infections and skin problems associated with allergies. Medications, along with fish oil, may help relieve some of your dog's discomfort.
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Identification
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It is important to remember that allergies can stem from many sources, the least common of which is food. Determining the source of your dog's allergies and working to eliminate the cause is critical for allergy relief.
Inflammatory Response
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Allergies occur when your dog's immune system reacts improperly to foreign objects. This overreaction in your dog's immune system creates intense itching and other symptoms, including irritated eyes and infected ears.
Fish Oil
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Fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation in your dog's body. Using fish oil in conjunction with antihistamines may help reduce your dog's inflammatory response, including itching.
Considerations
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According to Dr. Holly Nash, DVM, fish oil supplements should be added to your dog's diet for 9 to 12 weeks before determining if they are improving allergy symptoms. Dogs with known fish allergies should not be given fish oil supplements.
Risks
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Side effects associated with fish oil are rare, but do exist. Pancreatitis or problems with blood clotting may occur in extremely high doses. Fish oil contains calories, and could possibly cause your dog to gain weight if provided in high doses.
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