Prescription Allergy Medicine for Dogs

Petco carries five types of prescription medications and antihistamines for dogs that help soothe discomfort. Each can be given orally and is available in capsule or tablet form for dogs, cats, and other small animals. While most work to control symptomatic itching, there are some differences. We’ll help you understand what each allergy relief for dogs treats and why your veterinarian might prescribe one over the other:

• Clemastine: An antihistamine in tablet form that belongs to a group of H1 blockers. It works by stopping the actions of histamine in the body, which cause many of the symptoms we see when an allergic reaction occurs. Clemastine has less of a sedative side effect compared to the other medications.
• Cyproheptadine: Another antihistamine for dogs used in the treatment of allergies, atopy, and asthma in pets. It is also prescribed to treat serotonin syndrome and as an appetite stimulant for cats. Cyproheptadine tablets help decrease inflammation and itching and block the chemical serotonin.
• Hydroxyzine for dogs: An antihistamine that comes in two forms— Hydroxyzine Pamoate and Hydroxyzine HCI. Both remedy symptoms caused by allergies, flea bite dermatitis, atopy, and hives. Hydroxyzine Pamoate, the generic form of Vistaril, is available in capsule form and Hydroxyzine HCI, the generic form of Atarax, is available in tablet form.
• Cyclosporine: A Medication that suppresses the immune system and is used to treat immune-mediated diseases, especially those involving the blood or skin. At lower doses, Cyclosporine for dogs treats allergies to airborne substances and is available in capsule form.

If the pollen has your pup licking their paws or an itch has them biting their back quarters, explore Petco's wide selection of dog allergy treatments. When you’re ready to order add the item to your cart, fill in your pet and veterinarian’s information, and Petco will handle getting the prescription.

The best allergy relief for dogs depends on the type and severity of the allergy. Your veterinarian can help determine the best course of treatment, which may include antihistamines, corticosteroids, fatty acid supplements, shampoos, and other skin treatments.

No, it is not recommended that you give your dog any human medication without consulting a veterinarian first. Dogs metabolize medications differently than humans, and giving your dog the wrong medication can have serious health consequences.

It is not recommended that you give your dog Equate Allergy Relief or any other human over-the-counter medication without consulting your veterinarian first. Human medications may contain ingredients that can be toxic to animals, or they may contain the wrong dosage. Additionally, some medications may interact with medications that your pet is already taking. For these reasons, it is best to check with a veterinarian before giving any medication to your pet.