We finally had a consultation with a dermatologist.  As usual for the area we are in, way too expensive for just a consultation but what can you do.
Allergy testing is done in 2 forms:  The standard blood test and a skin test.  The results of both tests are combined to help them create allergy shots tailored to your pet.  60-70% of dogs see results in 6 months to a year.

We also got a list of recommended shampoos that we should be using regularly, as well as being told to switch from Brewers yeast tablets to fish oil instead.  I have always stayed away from fish oil since Brutus has food allergies and we wanted to lessen the chance he will have issues with it, but I guess we will give it a try it.  We also need to wipe down his lower half every time he comes in from outside and avoid walks at dawn and dusk hours.

Our dermatologist also recommended trying a new drug recently approved for general practitioners in treating allergies in pets.  It has been used for 3 years, so no long term side effects are known but dogs are having a decrease in symptoms immediately with little to no side effects.  The drug is called Apoquel.  Dogs start out at a maximum dose for 2 weeks and then drop down to a lower dose to maintain.  It is recommended for use during the first 6 months to a year of allergy shots so they can have immediate relief. The kicker is that the pills are a little over $2 each.  Not good when your dogs is over 100 pounds. lol

We decided to give the pills a try, while we figure out if we can afford to spend around $900 right now for the testing and first batch of allergy shots.  I think we are going to look around and get some other prices before we commit.  Besides, these pills have been a life saver.  Almost all symptoms of allergies are gone and it is wonderful.

We will get Brutus tested eventually, but for now we are just happy to be entering Spring giving him relief.  I will let everyone know how the pills are doing and if / when we progress to testing.

Brutus may be high maintenance, but he is worth it.

Til next time!

Brutus and L