Just like people, pets can suffer from allergies too—and the symptoms can be frustrating for both you and your pet. From itchy skin to chronic ear infections, allergies are one of the most common reasons pet owners visit the vet. At Sandy Paws Animal Hospital, we’re here to help your pet find lasting relief.

Common Types of Pet Allergies

There are three main categories of allergies in pets:

  • Environmental Allergies (Atopy): Caused by pollen, mold, dust mites, or grasses.
  • Flea Allergy Dermatitis: A severe reaction to flea saliva, even from a single bite.
  • Food Allergies: Often triggered by specific proteins or ingredients in pet food.

Each type can cause skin irritation, itchiness, and other uncomfortable symptoms.

Signs Your Pet May Have Allergies

  • Constant itching, licking, or chewing
  • Red, inflamed, or flaky skin
  • Hair loss or bald patches
  • Recurring ear infections
  • Watery eyes or sneezing
  • Gastrointestinal issues (with food allergies)

If your pet shows any of these signs, it’s time for a professional evaluation.

Diagnosing Pet Allergies

Our team at Sandy Paws Animal Hospital uses a combination of physical exams, medical history, and diagnostic testing to pinpoint the source of your pet’s allergies. Depending on the case, we may recommend:

  • Elimination diet trials
  • Skin scraping or cytology
  • Blood testing or intradermal allergy testing

Accurate diagnosis is key to successful treatment.

Treatment Options for Allergy Relief

Allergy treatment is rarely one-size-fits-all. We create a custom plan that may include:

  • Medications like antihistamines, steroids, or newer options like Apoquel or Cytopoint
  • Topical treatments such as medicated shampoos or sprays
  • Flea prevention to eliminate flea allergy triggers
  • Allergy immunotherapy (allergy shots) for long-term relief
  • Diet changes if a food allergy is suspected

Our goal is to not just manage symptoms, but to improve your pet’s comfort and quality of life.

Long-Term Management and Support

Allergies are usually chronic, meaning they require ongoing care and adjustments. We’ll work with you to monitor your pet’s response and make changes as needed—because your pet deserves relief that lasts.

If your pet can’t stop scratching, we can help. Call Sandy Paws Animal Hospital today at (904) 278-0600 or visit us at 550 Wells Road, Suite 17, Orange Park, FL 32073 to schedule an allergy evaluation. Relief is just a visit away.