Allergy Desensitization Therapy
Pets with atopic dermatitis often benefit from Allergen Specific Immunotherapy — a gradual process that builds tolerance to the allergens making them itch.
Built around your pet’s own allergens
Building tolerance, one small dose at a time.
Pets with atopic dermatitis (environmental allergies) often benefit from Allergen Specific Immunotherapy (ASIT) treatment, also called allergy hypo-sensitization or allergy desensitization therapy. Allergens are introduced in gradually increasing amounts, either subcutaneously or into the mouth orally, which eventually builds up a tolerance to those allergens.
Oral immunotherapy drops are a well-established option and are often preferred for pets that may not tolerate injectable therapy well.
Desensitization is useful for environmental allergies, but is not used for food allergies in pets. Environmental allergies are generally not cured but can be managed well, resulting in control of allergies and related symptoms.
At a glance
- For environmental allergies, not food allergies
- Two routes: under the skin or by mouth
- Guided by your pet’s allergy test results
- Long-term therapy with regular review
- Works alongside skin barrier and flare-factor care
Injections or drops — your choice
The mode of administration is selected in consultation with you, so that it fits your household long-term.
Subcutaneous immunotherapy
Also called allergy injections. Natural extracts of the allergens are administered under the skin. The protocol generally involves weekly injections during the build-up phase, followed by maintenance therapy of one to two injections every month long-term.
Oral immunotherapy
Also called allergy drops, or sublingual immunotherapy. Natural extracts are given by mouth. Your pet is not required to swallow the formulation — only contact with the oral mucosa is needed — which makes it easier to administer. Daily treatment is needed long-term.
Desensitization is one part of the plan.
In addition to therapy selected from your pet’s allergy test results, additional interventions are usually needed to manage environmental allergies adequately.
- Allergen avoidance techniques
- Strengthening your pet’s skin barrier
- Management of flare factors
- Prevention of secondary skin infections
Questions pet parents ask
How long before we see a difference?
Immunotherapy works gradually. Most families are asked to give it a full course before judging the response, and we review progress at scheduled follow-ups.
Is this a cure?
Environmental allergies are generally not cured, but they can be managed well. While allergies are for life, a lot can be done to prevent them from affecting your pet’s quality of life.
Can we switch between drops and injections?
Yes. There is evidence that pets who do not respond well to one route may still respond to the other, and we will discuss switching if progress stalls.
Other services that may help
Non-Allergic Skin and Ear Problems
Infections, nail conditions, hair loss, tumours and autoimmune disease.
Treat the allergy, not just the itch.
Desensitization therapy is built from your pet’s own allergy test results and continued at home over time.
Not sure if this is right for your pet?
Book an initial consultation and we will work it out together.