Like us, pets can have all kinds of allergies. As allergies can be scary, a good pet parent will be keen to know whether or not pet insurance covers them. Here’s a guide that explains exactly that.
What kind of allergies can dogs get?
Dogs are just as vulnerable to allergies as we are, believe it or not. They can be allergic to food, to plants, to medication…it’d be hard to provide a comprehensive list. Whether your furry friend is a full time indoor pet or an outside explorer, allergies don’t discriminate.
These allergies are common and cause them pain, irritation and, in some circumstances, life-threatening complications. Allergies vary across a range of features, including how they get into the body; the part of the body they affect; and whether they cause a reaction immediately or slowly.
Are allergies more common in some dogs than others?
There is some evidence that breeds – including Bichon Frise, Bull Terrier, Boxer and German Shepherd – are more prone to allergies, but the fact is that any dog can have any allergy at any time.
Don’t assume that you can relax about your dog. No breed is immune. But rest assured, Paw Protect provides coverage for breed-specific and genetic conditions with every policy at no extra cost
How do I know if my pet has an allergy?
Because allergens work by irritating the body in some way, a cat or a dog will often itch the skin, as we do, in an attempt to ease the discomfort.
Although the following symptoms could of course be a sign of another kind of problem, things to look out for when you’re trying to identify an allergy are:
- Hives
- Swelling of the face
- Inflamed skin
- Constant licking
- Sneezing
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Shaking the head
- Scratching at the ears
Always leave the official diagnosis to a qualified vet, who may propose an allergy test or, if you believe the allergen to be a food, may suggest altering your pet’s diet to exclude the potential culprit.
Ultimately, it can be difficult to work out exactly what’s causing the problem, so there’s a good deal of trial and error. In the meantime, allergy relief medication can keep the symptoms under control.
Can I prevent pet allergies?
In order to prevent allergic reactions in dogs as best you can, regularly wash them, take them to the vet, and groom them well. Flea allergies are common in dogs so find a flea product that you like which will keep fleas off your dog’s fur.
Feed them a balanced diet, of course (your pet, not the fleas) – the healthier they are the less likely they are to have complications of any sort. Unfortunately, beyond a certain point, there is only so much that prevention can do – allergies are unfair in that way!
Are allergies expensive to treat?
Yes. As any parent of a human child with an allergy can tell you, fighting allergies can be exhausting and costly. It’s the same with animals, because of trips to the vet, changes in routine and diet, stress, and much more.
You might need to see special dermatologists, treat your pet with immunotherapy… the fight against allergies can place a significant financial burden on a pet parent. With insurance, however, it’s more manageable and in many ways, it’s excellent value for money.
Does pet insurance cover allergies?
Yes. Pet insurance can lighten the financial burden of allergy-related costs, just as it can lighten the burden of any covered condition.
The specifics from insurer to insurer will vary but Paw Protect covers allergies for the life of the animal, as long as the allergy isn’t a pre-existing condition (i.e. there’s been a diagnosis or symptoms before your plan takes effect).
There’s no need to take out any separate type of policy; with Paw Protect you could easily have the majority of your vet’s bills covered by a standard insurance plan.
This can give you important peace of mind as you go to battle against the allergy, and it will also feel as though you aren’t doing it alone.