Allergen Specific Immunotherapy

If your pet has been diagnosed with environmental allergies (Atopic dermatitis), your vet may recommend allergy desensitization via a process known as Allergen-specific Immunotherapy.

In short Allergen-specific Immunotherapy can be considered as an “allergy vaccine”. Approximately 60-80% of pets show good (some medical therapy still needed) to excellent (no other therapy needed) response. Clinical improvement is often noted after 3-6 months, however, can take up to 1 year in some dogs to assess the response.

Allergy testing is first required (Serum IgE or Intradermal skin testing). This will allow your veterinarian to pinpoint specifically what environmental allergies (e.g. mold, dust mites, fleas, pollen, etc.) your pet is allergic to. After a list of specific allergens is compiled a veterinarian may recommend either subcutaneous (under the skin) injection or lingual (under the tongue) desensitization.

Allergen-specific immunotherapy is one of the safest treatment options for the long-term management of allergic disease. Although rare, there is a chance of an allergic reaction to the injection or allergy drops.

Mild reactions may include small amount of redness at the injection site. If the lingual treatment option is elected mild facial irritation or drooling can occur.

Rarely, clinical signs of a more severe reaction may occur. If you observe any unusual reactions contact your veterinary professional immediately.