3040 Holland Rd.
Virginia Beach, VA 23453
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 1:00pm – 6:00pm
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: 1:00pm – 6:00pm
Friday: 1:00pm – 6:00pm
Saturday: 1:00pm – 6:00pm
Sunday: 1:00pm – 6:00pm
*Receiving hours: 11:00am – 5:00pm (by appointment only)
Phone: (757) 427-0070
Email: info@vbspca.com
3040 Holland Rd.
Virginia Beach, VA 23453
Monday: 9:00am – 5:00pm
Tuesday: 9:00am – 5:00pm
Wednesday: 9:00am – 5:00pm
Thursday: 9:00am – 5:00pm
Friday: 9:00am – 5:00pm
Saturday: 9:00am – 1:00pm
Sunday: Closed
Surgery Drop-Off: 8:00am – 8:45am
Phone: (757) 427-0070 opt. 2
Fax: (757) 563-2368
Email: clinic@vbspca.com
Saturday, May 20th – 9:00am to 12:00pm
Monday, May 22nd – 1:00pm to 4:00pm
Wednesday, May 24th – 11:00am to 2:30pm
Saturday, May 27th – 9:00am to 12:00pm
Wednesday, May 31st – 11:00am to 2:30pm
Saturday, June 3rd – 9:00am to 12:00pm
Monday, June 5th – 1:00pm to 4:00pm
Wednesday, June 7th – 11:00am to 2:30pm
Saturday, June 10th – 9:00am to 12:00pm
Monday, June 12th – 1:00pm to 4:00pm
Wednesday, June 14th – 11:00am to 2:30pm
Saturday, June 17th – 9:00am to 12:00pm
Wednesday, June 21st – 11:00am to 2:30pm
Saturday, June 24th – 9:00am to 12:00pm
Monday, June 26th – 1:00pm to 4:00pm
Wednesday, June 28th – 11:00am to 2:30pm
*all above clinics are held at the VBSPCA Clinic at 3040 Holland Road
The Virginia Beach SPCA is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. EIN:54-6061532. Contact us at info@vbspca.com.
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Last Updated: June 8, 2022 by vbspcaadmin
Allergies in Pets | Causes & Treatment Options
Anyone who has ever dealt with allergies certainly understands the misery those symptoms can bring. Unfortunately cats and dogs can also suffer from allergies.

There are three main causes of allergies in pets: fleas, environmental allergies, and food allergies. The most common symptoms of allergies include itchy skin, coughing or sneezing, discharge from the nose and/or eyes, and vomiting and/or diarrhea. As always, see your veterinarian if you notice your pet has those symptoms.
Flea Allergies
Flea bites usually only cause minor irritation in dogs or cats. However, those who are allergic to flea bites can have a severe reaction to just a single bite. Animals who are allergic to flea bites will chew or scratch incessantly, usually losing large amounts of hair in the process. The resulting irritation on the skin can also lead to a bacterial infection. Your veterinarian can prescribe a steroid or antihistamine, and if necessary, an antibiotic.
The best way to prevent issues resulting from flea bites is to apply monthly flea treatments to your cat or dog. Even if your pet is not allergic, these preventatives will help them avoid the discomfort that comes from flea bites.
Environmental Allergies
Just like humans, dogs and cats can react to a variety of environmental allergens such as tree pollens, grasses, molds, and dust mites. While people with these allergies mainly suffer from upper respiratory symptoms, pets are most likely to have severely itchy skin causing them to lick, chew, and even rub up against things to try to alleviate the itching.
Bathing your pet can reduce their discomfort and wash off the offending allergen(s). Your veterinarian can also prescribe medication that can be administered at home or provide your furry friend with an injection to combat their symptoms.
Food Allergies
Food allergies are much less common than flea or environmental allergies, but they can occur. If your pet does have a food allergy, chances are they are allergic to the protein used in the food, not the grains. Symptoms of a food allergy include gastrointestinal issues and itchy skin.
If your veterinarian suspects your pet has a food allergy, the only way to know for sure is a food elimination trial. Your veterinarian would prescribe a very specific diet and you would not be able to feed your pet anything else during the trial. If your pet’s symptoms improve, your veterinarian would then have your pet return to his original diet to confirm the allergy. If a food allergy is confirmed, your veterinarian can help develop a feeding plan for your cat or dog.
Other Allergens
Pets can also have allergic reactions to insect bites, medications, vaccinations, and other substances. In addition to the symptoms mentioned above, other signs that your dog or cat is having an allergic reaction include swelling or redness, lethargy, and difficulty breathing. Whether your pet is experiencing a dangerous reaction or his usual seasonal allergies, it is important to seek help from your veterinarian to keep your pet happy and healthy.
Category: VBSPCA News
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