Expert: Charlotte Sherrell, DVM - 8/5/2008

Question
My dog Pico is a 5 year old lab/border collie/Australian Shepard mix.  Over the past year he has had problems with his nose crusting over with lesions as well as sneezing, running nose, and at times scabby, bleeding/swollen lips.  The problem has not gone away with winter (I live in northern Michigan).  A biopsy on his nose and lip indicated it is NOT an auto immune disease but rather allergies.  He is currently taking prednisone to help control the symptoms,  but he and I don't like the side effects of steroids (excessive appetite, thirst, peeing.....).   Is there any other medication for allergies besides prednisone to control his symptoms??

Answer
Janice -

Ask your veterinarian about cyclosporine as treatment for severe allergies.  It has prednisone like effects in that it helps suppress the body's immune system but the side effects are not as severe as those of prednisone.  You do need to have doctor supervision when using cyclosporine; make sure you talk it over with your vet before giving him this drug.

Best Regards,

Charlotte Sherrell, DVM