Re: Allergies?

In Reply to: Allergies?
Category:   Medical
Posted by:  Mike Shirey
Posted on:  June 18, 2002 at 11:24:20

: I have a 3 year old Jack Russell who bites the fir off the tops of her paws. This only happens for about a month or so once a year. The vet says it's an allergy and she prescibes it steriods. Is this a common problem and does the steriods sound like a good remedy? I hate to give her steriods because they can have side affects. Thanks

Response:

Hi Mike,

Seeing that your JRT only suffers from allergies for a short period once a year, my guess is whatever medication your vet prescribes shouldn't have any long term ill-effect.

However, I would spend some time talking with your vet and express your concerns about steroid use and ask what the risks may be for using for such a short period of time. If you are still uncomfortable with the answer perhaps your vet can come up with an alternative treatment.