Pugs have allergies just like humans. One of the most common allergies is an inhalant (the act of inhaling something such as pollen that causes an allergic reaction). You need to be more cautious with pugs because of the fact that they have a punched in nose. The shape of their nasal cavity makes it harder for them to breathe in general, but makes it even worse when they have allergies. However, certain remedies can help your pug with inhalant allergies.
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Inhalant Allergy Prevention
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A healthy and happy pug makes for a healthy and happy owner. Your pug can show signs of an allergic reaction by itching of the skin, coughing, sneezing, wheezing, and a discharge from the nose or eyes. Vet bills and medications can add up quickly, so your best bet is to try to prevent the allergic reaction in your pug. A few things you can do include: keeping your house free of dust and dust mites, keeping your grass cut, not keeping the pug in the basement for any extended amount of time, having a dehumidifier or air conditioner on in times of high humidity or really hot days, and keeping your pug indoors. Doing these simple things can help prevent your pug from suffering through an inhalant allergy.
Inhalant Allergy Treatment
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In the case that your pug is suffering from an inhalant allergy, get to the vet right away. The vet will treat your pug with medications such as antibiotics and/or anti-inflammatory drugs. Antibiotics are used in cases when your pug scratches his skin so much that he caused an infection. The two most common antibiotics prescribed to pugs are Cephalexin and Griseofulvin. The anti-inflammatory drugs that are used for pugs are NSAIDS (nonsteroid anti-inflammatory drugs). The two most common types are Phenylbutazone and Diflusinal.
Another treatment that can be used is a hypoallergenic shampoo. Some allergens are absorbed through your pug's skin so using this type of shampoo or even bathing them frequently can reduce the amount of allergens and itching.
Food as an Inhalant Allergy Treatment
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The type of food you feed your pug can help with the treatment of the damage done to your pug's skin from constant itching (which is a side effect of having an inhalant allergy). Adding food high in Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids to your pug's diet will help make her skin and coat stronger. This will also make her feel a little more comfortable as she goes through the symptoms of an inhalant allergy. Many dog food companies are now adding these supplements to their foods so look for them in the ingredient list or somewhere on the front of the food package.
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