Allergies aren’t fun for anyone, but especially not for your pet who can’t tell you what’s making him so sick. Food allergies or food intolerance are caused by a reaction to a particular ingredient. Sometimes referred to as an ‘adverse reaction to food,’ it is defined as an abnormal response to a food or food additive. There are two classes of adverse reactions: those in which the immune system is involved (generally called food allergies); and those that occur without an immune component (generally called food intolerances).
It may take months or years before your pet develops an allergic response to a particular food. However, once he’s allergic, he will almost always have a negative reaction to that food. Allergic reactions are most commonly associated with protein sources – usually the meat in your pet’s food.
Food: The most common causes of food allergies / intolerance in dogs are beef, milk products and wheat.
Damage: Inflammation, infection, and some medications can damage the digestive system and may lead to food allergies / intolerance.
Age: Food allergies / intolerance can occur at any age.
Breed: Some dog breeds appear more likely to develop food allergies / intolerance, including West Highland White terriers, cocker spaniels and Irish setters.
Treatment: The importance of nutrition
Food allergies or food intolerance may last a lifetime. The main goal in managing allergies or adverse reactions to food is to find and avoid the food ingredient responsible for causing the skin and/or gastrointestinal signs. If your pet suffers from food allergies, it’s even more important to feed the right food.
The ideal diet would be homemade from known ingredients, but many of us don’t have time for that. In most cases we have to turn to a commercial diet made of limited ingredients to which our pet has neve been exposed. It can be difficult to list every food ingredient that our per has ever been expoese to. Fortunately, we have a solution!
Hydrolyzed Protein Diets
These are diets in which the proteins have been broken down into their amino acid building blocks, which do not stimulate the immune system. Examples include the Hydrolyzed Protein diets by Royal Canin, and Prescription Diet z/d, made by Hills. These are highly palatable, highly digestible, complete and balanced hydrolyzed protein diets. The diets are specifically formulated for use as short-term elimination feeding and as long-term nutrition for dogs with food sensitivities. They contain all of the proteins, amino acids, and vitamins needed to boost the immune system and give your pet the energy he needs without upsetting his sensitive tummy. These special prescription food formulas also provide a healthy skin barrier that protects against environmental allergens and bacteria.
- Hydrolyzed Protein- Hydrolyzed protein, composed of low molecular weight peptides, is highly digestible and supports gastrointestinal and dermatological health.
- Skin Barrier- Optimal amounts of B vitamins and amino acids help maintain the skin’s natural barrier effect.
- EPA & DHA- Eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids are long chain Omega-3 fatty acids that promote a healthy skin and coat.
- Digestive Support- Specific nutrient blend to help regulate intestinal transit and to help support the digestive flora.
- Supports skin and digestive health in dogs with food sensitivity
- Helps maintain skin and coat health
- Supports the skin’s natural barrier
- Helps maintain digestive health
- 100% Complete and Balanced Nutrition
- 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed
If you think your pet may benefit from these diets, give us a call!