Similar to people, dogs can experience a mold allergy as a reaction to this substance in their environment. In this post, our Glendale vets list signs and symptoms of mold allergies in dogs, how they are diagnosed, and treatment options, including immunotherapy using pet vaccinations.
What are mold allergies in dogs?
Mold can be found both indoors and outdoors, and rapidly multiplies in damp, humid environments like basements. It also grows seasonally in piles of wet leaves and ecaying plant material. Homeowners must work to keep mold from spreading in places like window ledges and showers. Mold also produces spores that may cause allergic reactions in dogs.
Itchy skin is typically the first sign of irritation in dogs who inhale mold spores. Inhalant allergies usually manifest themselves in dogs under the age of three, though pooches of any age can develop allergies. Many dog breeds are thought to be sensitive to non-food allergens like grasses and pollen. If your dog is displaying symptoms of an allergy, book a visit with your veterinarian so the cause of the allergy can be diagnosed and your dog can receive proper treatment.
Mold is the most common inhalant allergen in dogs. However, other airborne allergens like pollen and dust mites can also cause health issues.
What are the symptoms of a mold allergy?
If your dog is experiencing a mold allergy, they may display the following signs and symptoms:
- Coughing
- Wheezing
- Sneezing
- Watery eyes
- Labored breathing (your dog's chest may seem to heave with each breath)
- Frequent licking, scracthing, or biting themselves
- Lethargy
- Frequent ear infections
- Loss of appetite
Schedule an appointment with your veterinarian if you notice these signs or any changes in your dog's appetite, behavior, or energy level.
How are mold allergies diagnosed?
Your veterinarian will examine your dog and check the ears and skin for signs of infections, conditions, or other problems. They will review your dog's medical history, recent illnesses, previous incidents of skin irritation, current diet, recent travel history, and any medications they are currently taking.
Your veterinarian may conduct a blood test to help diagnose your dog's mold allergy. They will then test the blood sample using equipment in our onsite veterinary lab to check for antibodies to the mold allergen. Dogs with inhalant allergies may be sensitive to multiple particles, including dust, pollen, and mites. A urinalysis and skin scraping may also be done to rule out other potential causes of a skin problem.
How are mold allergies treated?
Your veterinarian may prescribe medications to treat your dog's symptoms and to make breathing. Your dog may also require ear drops if he has an ear infection, as well as antibiotics if he has infected skin sores.
Your veterinarian may advise you to have the mold removed from your home as soon as possible to help treat your dog's symptoms and any infections. Depending on the severity of your dog's symptoms, and your dog's size, age, and health, your veterinarian may also advise you not to take him home until the mold has been removed. The symptoms may not improve and may even worsen if you take your dog home with mold still in the house.
How Immunotherapy Can Help With Mold Allergies in Dogs
Allergen Immunotherapy is the process of desensitizing your dog to the source of their allergy so that they can better cope with exposure. This is done by gradually introducing them to trace amounts of their allergen over time by administering vaccinations, which will help your dog build a tolerance and immunity to the allergen. Some common allergies treated with allergen immunotherapy include tree pollen, grass pollen, weed pollen, house dust mites, molds, feathers, and human dander.
Allergy desensitization is a safe and effective treatment for allergic cats and dogs. It is the only treatment proven to help prevent the progression of allergies as pets get older. Allergy immunotherapy also helps decrease the need for long-term medications, and reduces your dog's risk of developing skin and ear infections. This can lead to an improvement in your dog's quality of life in the long term.
If you are curious about the benefits of dog vaccinations for allergen desensitization, contact your vet. They can accurately diagnose what ails your dog or cat and make a treatment plan to help improve their quality of life. Complex cases may require a referral to a veterinary dermatologist or allergist.
How do dogs recover from mold allergies?
Mold allergy treatment and recovery go hand in hand. Adhering to veterinarian-prescribed therapies will benefit a dog with allergies. You can also use a dehumidifier to prevent mold, clean mold-producing rooms, use cleaning products that remove mold and spores, and have air conditioning ducts checked regularly for mold.
Dogs should also wear washable booties and a sweater when going outside, and their fur and feet should be wiped down when entering the house. If you have any questions, a veterinarian can help. They will likely want to re-check your pet's skin as well to make sure recovery is progressing smoothly.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.