Royal Canin’s Itching To Raise Awareness During National Allergy Week (22-28 April)

With nearly half of dog owners unaware of pet allergies and how to spot them*, Royal Canin is helping to erode the myths about skin irritation during this year’s National Allergy Week (22-28 April). With itchy skin being one of the most common reasons for dogs needing to visit the vet, there is often an assumption that the dog must be suffering from parasites such as fleas, but in actual fact they could be having an allergic reaction. During this time of year – in the same way humans react to spring pollens by developing hay fever - dogs can have an allergic reaction to their environment. This is known as an ‘atopy’ and can be spotted if the dog is frequently scratching, chewing their feet, rubbing their muzzle or itching their ears. In response to the increasingly common condition, pet food manufacturer Royal Canin, has developed a unique range of scientific Skin Care diets, available only through vets, which assist dogs that have skin allergies unrelated to food intolerance. Ian Williams, Royal Canin’s Veterinary Scientific Support Manager explains: “Allergic skin disease can be a real source of irritation for dogs and although it can be tricky to diagnose, it’s important to seek advice from a vet if any allergic signs are spotted. Atopy usually develops first during early adulthood, often causing mild seasonal symptoms initially but can develop in severity over the years. “Although atopy is not usually resolved, prescribed treatments can be very successful in reducing the symptoms. Owners can help by discussing with their vet the best option for their dog and together, with prescribed treatments, something as simple as adapting a diet can really help with the dog’s overall wellbeing.” For more information about Royal Canin, visit www.royalcanin.co.uk.

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