Hey Sherri - So glad that Skittles is walking better. I agree with Rachel that I wouldn't get too alarmed yet. Just take a couple more tests over the next couple of days. Remember dry food stays in the system a little longer so don't be concern if you get a little higher number today.
My dogs have environmental allergies. I try and do the holistic approach as well. This is what things I do:
* Give them raw honey - great properties to boost the immune system and aids digestion (usually give about 1 tsp BID)
* Coconut Oil - Decreases infections caused by allergies (for a 70 lb dog, I give a tablespoon BID)
* No grain in diets - Hills Sensitive Skin/Stomach has quite a bit of grains and carbs
* No vaccinations during allergy time - I don't vaccinate but just in case you have to
* Low Carb/minimally processed food for better digestion - no surprise here!
* When it gets really bad, I use Benadryl, sometimes Equate a generic Benadryl brand or Zyrtec too.
If you have itchy hot spots then:
* Check for fleas and/or ticks
* If fleas or ticks, I sprinkle DE (diamacteous earth food grade) on the skin. I also put a little in their drinking water too.
* For hot spots - Shave all around the area so sore is in the open
* Apply Aloe Vera gel to hot spot to minimize the itching
* Apply French Green Clay to hot spot to draws out the toxins and soothe the skin and I love this stuff and use it all the time for everything.
I also tried to the appropriate food just in case it was a food allergy and ended up trying all sorts of dog food over a six month (maybe more) period. Food allergies are harder to figure out. I did end up changing food and the one that they are on now is helping out too. It is very, very expensive too but it is helping out and they LOVE it. It is called Orijen Red. It is no grain and low in carbs.
Here is a good read:
http://www.thrivingcanine.com/holistic_approach_dog_allergies
Good luck as I know the itching is so frustrating.
