Dogs can suffer from allergies to many things, including food-related or environmental issues. One common cause of allergies in dogs is mold. In this blog post, our vets at Montecito Veterinary Center will explain how dogs develop mold allergies and discuss treatment options.
About Mold Allergies in Dogs
Mold is everywhere, indoors and out, and it easily multiplies in damp, humid areas around your home, like bathrooms and basements.
Mold grows outside all year round, but dampness and humidity allow for more rapid growth. Homeowners must make continuous efforts to prevent mold from spreading in areas such as showers and window ledges.
Dogs that inhale mold spores typically suffer from itchy skin. Mold is one of the most common inhalant allergens for dogs. Dogs suffering from this condition often have more than one inhalant allergy, which makes them susceptible to the effects of other airborne allergens, such as pollen and dust mites.
Signs & Symptoms of Mold Allergies in Dogs
Although humans often suffer from respiratory symptoms if they develop a mold allergy, the primary signs we see in dogs are typically skin-related. These signs may include:
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- Itching
- Redness of the skin
- Dry or scaly skin
- Hair loss
- Ear infections
- Head shaking
- Chewing and licking skin
Mold can also cause respiratory symptoms and diseases; however, these are less common in dogs than skin-related signs and symptoms.
Dog Breeds Predisposed to Mold Allergies
Some of the types of dogs that are thought to be predisposed to allergies are:
- Golden retrievers
- Poodles
- Pugs
- Miniature schnauzers
- Lhasa apsos
- Shih tzus
- Irish setters
- German shepherds
- Terriers (West Highland, Boston, Skye, and Scottish)
How Mold Allergies are Diagnosed
Dogs with inhalant allergies may be sensitive to many particles, including mites, pollen, and dust. Your veterinarian will review your dog's medical history, recent illnesses and travel history, prior incidents of skin irritation, current diet, and whether your pup is taking any medications. They will also perform a physical exam, which will include a close examination of your dog's skin and ears.
Your vet will also conduct diagnostic testing, which may include blood tests, urinalysis, and skin scrapings to rule out other potential causes of your dog's symptoms. A skin biopsy, skin cytology, intradermal skin testing, skin and ear cultures, and additional skin scraping may also be recommended. If your dog requires further diagnostics and treatment, you may be referred to a veterinary dermatologist.
Treatment of Mold Allergies in Dogs
Medications may be prescribed to treat your dog's symptoms and make breathing easier. Your dog may also require ear drops if an ear infection is present, as well as antibiotics to treat infected skin sores.
Your veterinarian may advise you to have the mold removed from your home as soon as possible to help treat your dog's symptoms and any infections. Depending on the severity of your dog's symptoms, as well as their size, age, and health, your veterinarian may also advise you not to take your pup home until the mold has been removed.
Symptoms may not improve and could even become worse if mold is still present in the house.
Other Treatment Options for Mold Allergies in Dogs
Your vet may prescribe one or a combination of treatments for your dog's mold allergy, including:
Frequent Bathing
To soothe the itching, shampoo your dog with a hypoallergenic product in cool to warm water (never hot water, as it may irritate the skin). Your vet can tell you how often to bathe your dog.
Inflammation Therapy
Medications such as corticosteroids and antihistamines can help with inflammation. Topical creams to relieve redness and Omega 3 supplements to boost the body's response to the medication may also be prescribed.
Hyposensitization
Allergen injections of a gradually increasing dosage are given as treatment to desensitize your dog to the mold.
How do dogs recover from mold allergies?
Following the treatment recommendations and therapies prescribed by your vet can help treat your dog's symptoms and aid in recovery. You can also use a dehumidifier to prevent mold, deep cleaning mold-prone rooms, using cleaning products that remove mold and spores, and having air conditioning ducts checked regularly.
You may also want to have your dog wear washable booties and a sweater when going outside. Fur and feet should be wiped down after every walk before entering the house. If you have any questions, the veterinarian can help. Regularly scheduled examinations will be required to check that recovery is progressing smoothly and help ensure that your dog remains healthy and symptom free.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.