Those Doggone Allergies
Good Clean Funnies
Just like humans, dogs can develop
allergies. If your dog often gets
fits of coughing or sneezing, skin
problems, or seems generally
uncomfortable, he may be
suffering from an allergic reaction.
A rookie pitcher was having a hard
time pitching the game. The catcher
became frustrated and walked out
to talk with him.
“I know what your problem is,”
he said to the pitcher. “After one
specific point in every game, you
lose your focus.”
Symptoms of allergies in dogs
include itchy, red or scabbed skin,
increased scratching, runny eyes,
sneezing, coughing, snoring, and
constant licking. Just like humans,
dogs can be allergic to pollen
and mold, dust, cigarette smoke,
cleaning products, prescription
drugs, fabrics, and food.
If food is the suspected allergen,
pinning down the culprit can take
some work. A food allergy in a dog
usually results in itchy skin, ear
infections, and gastrointestinal
problems. Your vet can work with
you to use an elimination diet to
identify the specific allergens. If
you and your vet cannot figure out
what is causing these symptoms,
your dog may need further
testing using an intradermal skin
test similar to the one used on
humans.
If you suspect an allergy, the
first line of defense is to remove
the aggravating substance from
your dog’s environment. Irritated
skin can be treated with topical
medications. Practice good flea
control and keep your home’s
“What point is that?” asked the
pitcher.
“Right after the National Anthem,”
replied the catcher.
The Good Life
environment clean and as free
from dust and mold as possible.
Weekly bathing can help remove
allergens from your dog’s coat. If
food is the problem, then your vet
can recommend a diet free from
any identified allergens.
If those steps don’t completely
eliminate the symptoms, your
vet may consider prescribing
medication to help. There are
allergy injections and some
medications that have been shown
to be useful. Check with your vet
to find out all the options available
to you and your dog.
Golf Preparedness
With spring just around the corner,
many of us are gearing up for the
golfing season. Before you head
back out on the course, take time
to review some basic preparation
steps to ensure that you have a
day free of injuries or strains.
Remember to warm up before
teeing off. Walk for several
minutes, swinging your arms to
warm up those muscles. After your
Struggling Pitcher
muscles are beginning to warm up,
do some stretches, concentrating
on the muscles that you will use
most during your game. Stretch
your arms and back, as well as
your shoulders and legs. To protect
your feet from injury and fatigue,
make sure that your golf shoes are
properly fitted and are comfortable
at all times during your walk on
the course.
Quick Tips
Money Tip
Want to save money and get
smarter at the same time? Next
time you are looking for an
entertainment option, head to your
local library. You’ll find books on
every topic imaginable, but that is
only the beginning. You can pick up
music, movies, and magazines, take
a class, enjoy children’s programs,
and find a quiet place to relax and
enjoy learning. And it’s free, making
it the best financial choice for
entertainment.
Home Tip
Planting a tree in your yard not only
adds beauty—it can also help save
you money in the long run. Mature
shade trees can cut your cooling
costs by as much as 40 percent.
Trees also improve the curb appeal
of your home and are good for the
environment.
H E A LT H Y, W E A LT H Y & W I S E