Hyposensitization is a type of "allergen vaccination". It is recommended if an allergy to plant pollen, molds, insects or house dust mites has been diagnosed.
The initial (introductory) treatment comprises 15 injections with increasing allergen concentrations, which are administered under the skin. This initial therapy can normally extend over several weeks, but is now also carried out as so-called rush immunotherapy during one day. This type of immunotherapy is associated with a higher success rate and a faster onset of action, but is also somewhat more expensive. After this initial therapy, the maintenance dose (therapeutic dose) is reached and the injection intervals are extended, which should then be maintained for at least two to three years. To reduce veterinary costs, we recommend administering the allergen vaccinations yourself. When you present your pet for the first injection, we will show you the injection technique and you will administer the vaccination in our presence. A further presentation of your pet is then only necessary after 3-4 months. After that, we will ideally only need to see your pet every 6-12 months. If you are not confident about injecting your pet, you can of course have it done by your vet.
The aim of hyposensitization is to offer an effective alternative to corticosteroids (cortisone) or other medications. The aim is to stimulate the patient's immune system. In positive cases, this results in better tolerance of the allergens that originally caused the itching. A satisfactory result is achieved in around 60-70% of cases. The remaining animals respond inadequately to this therapy even after 12 months. Continuation of the injections is then no longer advisable. For these patients, we can offer help with modern shampoos and alternative medications such as antihistamines or fatty acids. However, lifelong cortisone treatment is sometimes necessary to control the itching.
We are convinced that this treatment is the best long-term therapy for your pet, and it is currently the only method of specifically addressing the allergy.