076 Allergies in Westies

West Highland White Terriers (Westies) present unique challenges when managing their allergies. In this episode, board certified veterinary dermatologist and devoted Westie owner Dr. Valerie Fadok joins to allergic skin and ear disease in these little dogs with big personalities. Dr. Fadok shares her expertise and personal stories to help pet owners better understand and manage this frustrating condition in this specific breed. Key Takeaways: Westies are genetically predisposed to atopic dermatitis and can show signs of allergies early in life. Common signs include persistent itchiness, greasy or scaly skin, frequent secondary infections, hair loss, and chronic ear infections. Early diagnosis and management are critical to avoid progression to severe, chronic skin changes. Treatment plans may include medications, regular bathing, immunotherapy, and collaboration with a veterinary dermatologist. Flea allergy dermatitis is a common trigger—preventative flea control is non-negotiable, even if fleas aren't seen. Food allergies affect approximately 50% of allergic Westies; an elimination diet trial with a prescription or elemental diet is the gold standard for diagnosis. Owners should avoid unreliable internet food allergy tests like hair or saliva testing. The Westie Foundation of America provides excellent breed-specific resources and funds research to improve Westie health. Resources: 📸Episode page with blog post and images 📘 Westie Foundation of America Health Book (Free Download) 🔬 Find a Veterinary Dermatologist Near You Our vision is for Your Vet Wants You to Know to be a resource for veterinarians to improve client communication by introducing a discussion about a common topic during the vet visit, then directing the client to a reliable source of engaging, understandable, and accessible information.   By doing so, we strive for: 1) increased pet health literacy among pet owners,   2) improved partnership between clients and the veterinary team,   3) improved medical outcomes for pets, and   4) improved quality of life and efficiency for veterinarians.   Help support our mission through BUY ME A COFFEE: https://buymeacoffee.com/yourvet Connect with Your Vet! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yourvetwantsyoutoknow Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourvetwantsyoutoknow  

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As a curious pet owner, have you ever taken to the internet for more information about pet health? Maybe you want to know why your pet is itchy and what you can do about it. Maybe you’re frustrated about the ear infections always coming back. Maybe you’re looking for ways to make veterinary care more affordable. Instead of wading through a sea of information that may not be reliable, and in some cases may be harmful, here is what Your Vet Wants You to Know. I’m Dr. Brittany Lancellotti, board certified veterinary dermatology specialist. Join me to get the information you’re looking for to care for your dog and cat, from diseases and treatments to financial planning and what’s happening in the world of veterinary medicine. If you’re curious about your pet's health, then Your Vet Wants You to Know.