ALLERGIES Achoo!   Allergy season is here and many of our pets and us will be faced with seasonal allergies.   Common allergic triggers are dust, pollen, fungus & mold.  Household cleaning product residue can also trigger allergic responses, both from inhalation and contact with the offending agent.   Dogs tend to manifest allergic responses in their skin.  The initial phase can be seen a hives, "whorls or wheels" as they are sometimes referred to.  This can progress to a more serious condition such as pyoderma- small pus filled eruptions, usually running from base of neck to tail.  Other signs of allergies are excessive foot licking with or without sores in between the toes; weepy irritated eyes, runny nose and ear infections. Herbally, our Allergy formula works extremely well for combining both a natural anti-inflammatory effect as well as combating related allergy skin infection and irritation.   It is safe to use and its' palatable formula is easily added to food or a tasty treat.   Additionally, if your dog has "allergy ears", red, infected ears that are associated with allergies, our Blue Magic Herbal Ear Cleanser effectively cleans, acidifies and soothes irritated, red ear canals.   The building blocks to health are good genes and a good diet.  Allergies may be more prevalent in an individual whose parents were also allergy sufferers.  We can't do much about the genes our pets have inherited, however, we can control their diet.  There are many commercial kibble and canned foods available, some better than others. Search for a relatively short, high quality ingredient list and essential fatty acid sources in the food, that are helpful when treating allergies. Over-vaccination can also trigger an inappropriate immune response, discuss your current vaccination protocol with your vet.  Current research from Colorado State University College of Veterinary Medicine and updated information from the AVMA recommends re-vaccinating only every three years as opposed to the standard practice of annual re-vaccinations.  The research has shown that if a dog receives their full series of puppy shots, they should have sufficient immunity for at least three years, possibly lifetime immunity.  Titer tests are also available for checking immunity levels.  Blood is drawn and sent to a lab where it is screened for sufficient levels of immunity.       As well as finding a food that does not trigger or exacerbate an allergic response, supplements can also help in treatment of allergies. Recommendations may include Vitamin C   and Omega 3 Fatty Acids as they provide a natural antihistamine, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effect. HOLISTIC VETERINARY INFORMATION: To locate a holistic veterinarian in you area that can assist you with appropriate holistic health care choices for your animal, you can contact the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association (AHVMA) 2214 Old Emmorton Road, Bel Air, MD 21015, (410) 569-0795     What does HERBS FOR ANIMALS have to offer? HERBS FOR ANIMALS offers our Allergy Tincture which contains Nettles, Pau D'arco, Licorice and Burdock Root.  All products are human grade quality.     If you have further questions, please feel free to call or e-mail! Lisa Walk, owner/herbalist BS, CH, LMT Herbs for Animals, LLC - Canine Massage & Herbal Therapies 1845 White Chapel Road, Williamstown, KY 41097 Email: herbsforanimals@aol.com Webstore: http://www.herbsforanimals.com Copyright © 2000-2008 Herbs for Animals, LLC. All rights reserved.