Pet Allergy Management in the Chicagoland Area
Managing your pet’s allergies doesn’t stop with diagnosis. It requires a personalized, long-term treatment plan designed to keep symptoms under control and quality of life high.
Long-Term Relief for Pets with Allergies
At Midwest Veterinary Dermatology Center, we specialize in pet allergy management — an essential service for animals suffering from allergic skin disease, atopic dermatitis, chronic ear conditions, and food allergies. For many pets, allergies are not a one-time event — they’re a lifelong condition that requires consistent care and expert oversight.
Our board-certified veterinary dermatologist in the Chicago suburbs provides a customized treatment protocol that will go beyond temporary relief. Through a combination of allergen-specific immunotherapy, medication, nutritional support, and environmental control, we help pets enjoy long-term comfort and health.
Managing Allergies in Pets:
A Long-Term Approach
Pet allergy management is a proactive, tailored approach to treating allergies over time — not just reacting to flare-ups. While allergy testing identifies the root cause of symptoms, effective management is what keeps those symptoms under control.
We address all types of allergic conditions, including:
Allergen-Specific Immunotherapy (ASIT)
Also known as “allergy shots” or “allergy drops,” allergen-specific immunotherapy is the only treatment that targets the immune system’s abnormal response to allergens.
We offer:
- Injectable Immunotherapy: Gradually introduces small amounts of allergens under the skin to build tolerance.
- Sublingual Immunotherapy: Allergen drops administered under the tongue for pets who prefer a needle-free option.
ASIT is tailored based on your pet’s allergy test results and is adjusted over time to achieve long-term desensitization. Most pets show significant improvement within 6 to 12 months of starting treatment. We always encourage owners to treat for at least one full year before we assess response.
Tailored Therapeutic Protocols
There is no one-size-fits-all plan for pet allergies. Our dermatology team develops an individualized protocol for your pet based on:
- Type and severity of allergy
- Response to prior treatments
- Coexisting health conditions
- Owner preferences and lifestyle
These protocols may include a combination of anti-inflammatory medications, antihistamines, immune-modulating drugs, and topical therapies to manage symptoms while immunotherapy takes effect.
Managing Flare-Ups & Providing Ongoing Support
Even with consistent treatment, occasional flare-ups can happen. That’s why we provide:
Our goal is to reduce your pet’s reliance on medications over time while enhancing their long-term skin and ear health.
Food Allergy Testing and Treatment
There is no reliable way to quickly test your pet for food allergies. The only true way to diagnose a food allergy is to evaluate patient history and complete a veterinary-monitored diet trial. This includes:
Following this approach to diagnosing food allergies ensures that every factor contributing to your pet’s allergies is addressed.
Ready to Take Control of Your Pet’s Allergies?
If your pet struggles with ongoing itching, skin irritation, or chronic ear problems, don’t wait to get help. A long-term, customized allergy management plan could be the key to lasting relief.