Quercetin For Dogs
Quercetin: A Natural Antihistamine For Dogs
Quercetin is a natural antihistamine for dog allergies. Quercetin is a flavonoid - the substance in colorful fruits and vegetables that contributes to its vibrant pigmentation. Quercetin provides natural allergy relief for dogs without the side effects commonly associated with medications, such as drowsiness.
Quercetin is often referred to as Nature's Benadryl. During an allergic reaction, mast cells release histamine into the bloodstream. Histamine is what causes the symptoms associated with allergies, such as itching, scratching, licking and hives. Research shows that quercetin can turn off the histamine activity associated with allergies.
Our quercetin supplement,
AllerEaze, is recommended by veterinarians nationwide as a safe and effective dog allergy treatment. AllerEaze combines quercetin and nettle leaf, two herbal ingredients known for their antihistamine and anti-inflammatory properties. Quercetin's ability to reduce histamine activity makes it beneficial for dogs with seasonal allergies and mast cell tumors. AllerEaze stands out as the best quercetin for dogs. It is made in the USA with non-GMO ingredients and is third-party tested for purity.
Why Use a Natural Antihistamine for Dog Allergies?
Prescription allergy medications for dogs may provide temporary relief of symptoms, but often have side effects like drowsiness.
Conventional veterinary treatment for allergies consists of steroids, antibiotics, and antihistamines. Sometimes a cone is the only thing that will stop your pet from licking and chewing on red, irritated skin. Most dogs will finish a course of medication and then, within a short period of time, the symptoms return.
Dogs with allergies get into a cycle of prescription medications and overuse that can weaken their immune system response and overall health. Herbal remedies for dog allergies, such as quercetin, along with diet changes and other supplemental nutrients can offer safe, long-lasting allergy relief.
Quercetin Provides Natural Allergy Relief For Dogs
Quercetin belongs to a class of water-soluble plant pigments called flavonoids. Flavonoids are found in many brightly colored vegetables like cranberries, blueberries, kale and sweet potatoes. Since quercetin is derived from plants, it is an all-natural remedy for dog allergies. It can be safely administered to alleviate seasonal allergy symptoms in your dog.
Allergies tend to accumulate, intensifying with prolonged exposure. Environmental allergies in dogs get worse when the weather is warmer and more humid as there are higher pollen levels. Dogs have more allergy symptoms in the spring and summer months, commonly known as "seasonal allergies". Quercetin, often referred to as nature's Benadryl, acts as a natural antihistamine for dogs and can help reduce symptoms of seasonal allergies.
In dogs, the most common sign of allergies is allergic dermatitis. Allergic dermatitis is skin inflammation resulting from itching and irritation. The scratching and chewing can lead to hair loss, red smelly paws and hot spots. Hot spots are inflamed, infected skin lesions that are the result of constant licking, biting and scratching. These areas are very uncomfortable for your dog and can lead to open sores with bleeding and hair loss.
Quercetin effectively suppresses the histamine reaction and inhibits inflammatory enzymes, reducing swelling and itching.
Scientific research shows that quercetin can turn off the histamine response responsible for inflammation during allergic reactions. Quercetin provides herbal allergy relief for dogs during allergy season.
Mast cell tumors are the most common type of skin cancer found in dogs. They can be found on the limbs, in between toes and in the spleen, liver and bone marrow. Both normal and cancerous mast cells contain chemicals that can be released into surrounding tissues. When these chemicals (particularly histamine) are released into the normal surrounding body tissues, side effects can include digestive problems (for example: bleeding ulcers), skin rashes, shortness of breath and other symptoms.
Common Allergic Reactions in Dogs
An allergy is when your pet's immune system overreacts to a trigger such as pollen. When pets have allergies, their immune system makes substances called antibodies that identify a particular allergen (e.g. dust) as harmful and responds to it. This can cause your pet's skin to become inflamed, itchy and red. The best way to protect your dog from an allergic response is to make sure your pet avoids the allergen, but it can be difficult to identify the allergen.
- Seasonal Environmental Allergies - Some of the most common causes of seasonal environmental allergies in dogs include dust, dust mites, mold, pollen and grass. These irritants are more prolific during certain times of the year, such as spring and summer.
- Flea Allergy Dermatitis (FAD) - Flea allergy dermatitis occurs when a dog's immune system is hypersensitive to the antigen or protein in the flea saliva. One flea bite can cause intense itching that can last for days.
- Food Allergies - Dogs can be allergic to certain foods such as beef, poultry and grains. Feeding a low carbohydrate novel protein diet is helpful for most dogs with allergies. Please include your dog's diet and treats on the order form at checkout and Ask Ariel will provide diet tips for your dog on the packing slip that comes with your order.
- Other Environmental Allergies - Dogs can also have allergic reactions to many household chemicals, mold and mildew. Scented candles, laundry detergent and dander from other pets can be allergens too. Pets are much more sensitive to airborne particulates, and the exposure can cause breathing problems.
Is Quercetin Safe for Dogs?
Yes, when administered at the appropriate dosage, quercetin is deemed safe for dogs. Many holistic veterinarians recommend quercetin for dogs with allergies because of its safety and efficacy. To administer to your dog, give with meals either in capsule form or by mixing into food. Here are a few things to consider when selecting a safe and effective quercetin supplement for your dog:
- Look for a product that is third-party tested for purity.
- Choose a supplement that is made in the United States with US sourced ingredients.
- Only use the dosages suggested by the manufacturer based on their product's potency.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your dog's supplementation of quercetin is safe. Please consult with your veterinarian before using quercetin if your pet is pregnant, lactating, or taking medications.
Originally published Dec 11, 2021
Updated Feb 29, 2024
Written by: Susan Davis, Pet Health Nutritionist, CCN
All pet treatment protocols and pet treatment supplements have been reviewed and approved by a veterinarian
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