Dog Food Allergies vs. Dog Food Intolerance
Dog allergies to food are far more common than the average pet owner may realise. Approximately 10% of the dog population actually suffer from food allergies, but diagnosis can be difficult to say the least. Many symptoms do resemble symptoms associated with other ailments and illnesses. However, it is also too easy to pass a simple food intolerance off as an allergy when the two are vastly different things.
A dog allergy to food is formed when the body absorbs the offending substance and causes a variety of effects such as itching, ear and eye infections, hair loss and skin flaking or patching. A food intolerance, on the other hand, does not allow the food substance to be absorbed at all. In many cases it has no sooner hit the stomach than expelled from the body via vomiting or diarrhoea. There are no lasting effects, like the skin problems and infections that characterise a dog allergy.
It is important for owners to actively understand the different between dog allergies and intolerances to food. Not only will this help reach an accurate diagnosis for your pet, but it will also better equip you to deal with the allergy or intolerance that rears its ugly head. A dog allergy or intolerance can be easily managed if you know how, but it is important to be able to distinguish between the two easily for the comfort and well being of your pet.
Sincerely
Angela
