As a pet owner, it can be distressing to see your beloved dog suffer from allergies, which can cause itching, discomfort, and a general decline in their well-being. When these issues arise suddenly or acutely, you might wonder whether emergency veterinarians can provide the help your dog needs. In this blog post, we'll explore how emergency vets can assist with allergies, when to turn to them for help, and how to manage long-term allergy care for your dog.

When to See an Emergency Veterinarian for Allergies

Emergency veterinarians specialize in managing urgent and severe health issues in pets, including sudden allergic reactions. If your dog experiences symptoms like severe itching, swelling, hives, or difficulty breathing, it may be time to visit an emergency vet. These professionals are trained to assess and treat acute conditions, providing immediate relief with the necessary medications.

Short-Term Allergy Relief Through Emergency Care

According to Otto, the number one reason dogs are brought to the vet is for skin allergies. These allergies can cause your dog to experience itching, rashes, and skin irritation. Emergency veterinarians can provide short-term relief for these symptoms using antihistamines or corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and discomfort.

Specialized Care for Chronic Allergy Management

While emergency veterinarians can be lifesavers in acute allergic reactions, chronic allergy management requires a more comprehensive approach. For long-term care, a veterinary dermatologist or your regular vet may be needed to identify allergy triggers and develop a tailored allergy management plan. This may include allergy testing, dietary changes, or prescription medications that can help reduce allergic reactions over time.

When to Seek Emergency Vet Help vs. Routine Care

If your dog suffers from frequent allergic reactions, it's essential to consult both emergency veterinarians and your regular vet. Emergency care is invaluable for addressing sudden allergic reactions that pose immediate risks to your pet's health, but ongoing allergy management will likely require the expertise of your primary veterinarian. In severe cases, such as anaphylaxis, emergency veterinarians can administer life-saving treatments, but for ongoing care and prevention, your regular vet will provide a more sustainable plan for managing allergies.



Emergency veterinarians are essential when it comes to managing acute allergic reactions in dogs. If your dog frequently suffers from allergies, it's best to work with both emergency and regular veterinarians to ensure they receive the best possible care and live a comfortable, healthy life. For more information, reach out to NB Animal Urgent Care.