Many paw parents have recently begun questioning whether or not the human-made allergy medication, Claritin, is safe and effective for their doggos too.
Runny nose? Endless itching? Irritated and red eyes? We’re all too familiar with allergies, affecting millions of individuals every year. Unfortunately, allergies don’t discriminate, our four-legged fur babies can get them too.
Dog allergies can be a constant struggle and cause agitation and discomfort, especially during those spring and summer months. Knowing that your best friend may be suffering just as much as we are makes paw parents wonder about what they can do to help.
In today’s article, we’ll discuss what you need to know about Claritin for dogs. As it’s one of the most popular allergy medications on the market for us humans, it’s also important that you know a few things about this medication before giving it to your pup.
What is Claritin?
Claritin, also scientifically known as Loratadine, works to alleviate allergy symptoms and mild to moderate allergic reactions that may result in hives. In many instances, veterinarians will prescribe Claritin for dogs for the same reasons that us humans take it.
Do note though, Claritin does not cure allergies. Allergies are manageable, not treatable. Your dog may still suffer from the unpleasant symptoms when they aren’t taking the medication. Claritin works to temporarily relieve the symptoms and help make the seasonal changes more doable for your puppers.
How Does Claritin Work for Dogs?
Well, when histamine attaches to the H-1 receptors (histamine-1 receptors), located on smooth muscles and small blood vessels, they trigger a reaction that may include itching, irritated eyes, a runny nose, and sneezing. Claritin is an antihistamine, meaning that it prevents histamines from attaching to the H-1 receptors. Thus, preventing an allergic reaction.
What is Claritin Used for Exactly?
A) Canine Atopic Dermatitis
Claritin can help with alleviating symptoms of canine atopic dermatitis. This is a chronic, inflammatory skin condition that results from a hypersensitivity to normal environmental substances like dirt and dust. Dogs that are affected by atopic dermatitis may get incredibly itchy, leading them to constantly lick and bite, in an attempt to relieve allergy symptoms. If this goes untreated, it can quickly lead to the development of bacterial infections and hot spots.
B) Allergies
Just like us humans, doggos with allergies suffer from red eyes, runny noses, and irritation. Affects dogs may also suffer from extremely itchy and irritated skin, causing uncontrollable episodes of scratching to relieve agitation. Constant itching, scratching, and biting can lead to many skin problems, including bacterial infections and scarring. Ouch!
