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View Full Version : Allergic pitbull


maryJane159
Nov 5, 2007, 07:42 AM
My pit bull is severely allergic to grass, black ants, pollen, ceder, trees, fleas, etc. Basically she can't go outside without being sick. We love her like our child, and we hate to see her this way. She is always irritated. We give her benedryl, like the doctor perscribes, and she gets a shot every other day. Still for over a month, neither of these things work. We give her baths with special cortizone shampoo and still she's bothered. Her ears are horrible, we clean them daily. What else can we do? Any suggestions? She's so beautiful, we just hate the hives!

RubyPitbull
Nov 5, 2007, 08:00 AM
Unfortunately pitbulls are prone to allergies. Some more than others. I would suggest you minimize the baths and just brush her with a soft brush (I use a large man's hairbrush) on a daily basis. Just like people, baths dry out the skin and take away essential oils. Even though you are using a cortisone shampoo, it will dry out her skin and cause her more itching, flaking and discomfort. My dog receives a bath maybe twice a year and doesn't smell. I give her a light brushing daily. She too is plagued with allergies but I am able to control them with benadryl.

As far as additional help on what to do, I strongly advise you to keep working with your vet on this. Has he/she ruled out food allergies? What are the shots you are giving her? Are they designed to help her build an immunity to the things that cause her to have an allergic reaction, the way an allergist will give shots to humans? If that is the case, it will take longer than a month for it to kick in and start having an effect. Usually treatments are for 6 to 8 weeks, depending on the severity of the allergies. If you feel the vet isn't doing all he/she can, then it might be a good idea to seek out another vet in your area who may have more experience with allergies in animals, for a second opinion and further treatment ideas and options. I don't recommend following the suggested advice of someone online whose professional background you don't know or can't confirm. You might just compound the problem.

maryJane159
Nov 5, 2007, 08:27 AM
Thanks for your comment, I consult a doctor before I do anything, however, thanks for the tips. Good luck to you and your pit. :)