Allergies and Adoption

According to VPI pet insurance claims, the top three most common claims in dogs are ear infections (thought linked to allergy), skin allergy, and hot spot (also a skin issue that could be linked to allergic disease).   Atopy (inhalant allergies) tend to run in breeds and families, so when you are looking for a pet, ask questions about the parents and relatives.  Good questions might include: "Have his parents ever had any severe itching? Do they ever seem to obsessively lick their paws? Have you ever noticed any related dogs losing hair or excessively shedding?"  Certain breeds seem more likely to have allergic disease also and any dog that is a terrier-type dog is at increased risk.  Advances in DNA testing might allow you some insight into the breed heritage of rescue dogs also. We are always happy to share our experiences with certain breeds of dogs, so use us as a resource when interviewing and adopting.  We work closely with Pet Placement Center, so if you are considering a pet from them, they would be happy to let us examine the pet and talk with you about his/her potential risks of allergic disease prior to adoption.
Although allergies are not curable, there are many things that can be done to help head them off and minimize the severity of an outbreak. Knowledge is power so knowing that your new pet might have a risk factor can help you be alert, but should not stop you from bringing the pet into your life.