How much do allergy shots cost for dogs?
How much do allergy shots cost for dogs?
$1,000 – $ 4,000 average allergy shots cost per year
Average cost of dog allergy shots
Dog allergy shots cost $1,000 to $4,000 per year. This long-term treatment, also called immunotherapy, is designed to desensitize your dog to specific allergens by administering gradually increasing doses over time. Pet owners may be able to give the shots at home, which can greatly reduce treatment costs.
| Service | Average cost per year |
|---|---|
| Initial vet exam | $40 – $80 |
| Allergy test (blood or skin) | $200 – $400 |
| Follow-up vet exams (1 – 3 per year) | $40 – $240 per year |
| Allergy serum & syringes | $700 – $1,200 per year |
| Optional injection appointment costs | $20 – $65 per injection |
| Estimated annual treatment cost | $1,000 – $4,000* |
*The lower estimate assumes at-home injections, while the higher estimate includes in-office injections.
Before beginning any allergy treatment, the vet must first diagnose the specific allergens that are affecting your dog. The initial vet exam costs $40 to $80 to discuss your dog’s allergy symptoms and possible triggers. Dog allergy testing costs $200 and $400 for a blood or skin test to determine what is causing the symptoms.
Allergy shots for dogs
Once your dog’s allergens have been diagnosed, the vet may recommend subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT) treatment. The vet administers the allergy shots and monitors for immediate reactions. Afterward, they may provide instructions for administering injections at home.
Immunotherapy treatment includes two phases:
During the build-up phase, injections are given once or twice a week. This phase lasts several months and aims to gradually increase the dog's tolerance to specific allergens.
Once this phase is complete, your dog enters the maintenance phase, where the frequency of injections is reduced to every 2 to 4 weeks. This phase typically lasts 3 to 5 years.
Studies show that 60% to 80% of dogs with environmental allergies respond positively to immunotherapy treatment. Regular follow-up visits with a veterinarian are crucial to monitor progress and adjust dosages as needed.
Other dog allergy treatments & costs
In addition to dog allergy shots, your vet may prescribe other treatments based on your dog's specific needs and health conditions. Many dogs receive allergy shots along with other medications or alternative therapies to provide comprehensive relief from allergy symptoms.
| Treatment type | Average cost per year* | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Allergy medications | $240 – $1,200 | Quick symptom relief | Temporary relief with potential side effects |
| Cytopoint treatments | $350 – $2,600 | Long-lasting effects | Expensive and requires multiple injections |
| Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) | $600 – $1,800 | Easy to use at home | Slower results |
| Apoquel | $1,200 – $2,400 | Fast-acting | Expensive with potential long-term side effects |
*Not including vet exam fees
Dog allergy medication
Medications for dog allergies typically cost $240 to $1,200 per year. These include antihistamines and corticosteroids that help alleviate symptoms like itching and inflammation. Medications can be administered as needed or regularly, depending on the severity of your dog's allergies and the veterinarian's recommendations.
Cytopoint
Cytopoint injections cost $350 to $2,600 per year to relieve itching from allergies. These vet-administered injections provide rapid relief within 24 to 48 hours and last for 4 to 8 weeks. Cytopoint doesn’t treat the actual allergy but helps reduce itching symptoms, is safe for dogs of all ages, and can be used with other medications.
Sublingual immunotherapy
Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) costs about $50 to $150 per month, totaling $600 to $1,800 per year on average. This treatment involves placing allergens under the dog's tongue to gradually build tolerance, without the need for invasive shots. Self-administered at home, the convenient treatment is as effective as shots over time and better tolerated by dogs afraid of needles.
Apoquel
Apoquel is a medication for controlling itching due to allergic and atopic dermatitis in dogs and typically costs $1,200 to $2,400 per year. Apoquel works quickly to relieve itching within hours and can be used long-term under veterinary supervision, although some side effects may occur and should be monitored by your veterinarian.
Dog allergy shot cost factors
If your dog is suffering from allergies, immunotherapy shots can be a great long-term solution to help them feel better. However, treatments can be costly, with several factors influencing the price, including:
Number of allergens: The cost of immunotherapy depends on how many allergens are identified in your dog's allergy test. More allergens usually mean a higher price for the treatment.
Length of treatment: Immunotherapy is a long-term commitment, often lasting several years, with some dogs continuing treatment for life.
Combined treatment approach: Your vet might recommend a combination of immunotherapy shots and other medications or treatments. This comprehensive approach can be more effective but may also increase the overall cost of managing your dog's allergies.
Administration method: Administering the shots at home after proper training by your veterinarian can greatly reduce ongoing treatment costs.
Clinic pricing: Different veterinary clinics have their own pricing structures, with low-cost clinics being more affordable than private vet practices or specialty animal hospitals.
Location: Costs vary depending on where you live. Vets in urban areas often charge more than rural clinics.
Insurance coverage: Pet insurance might help cover some of the costs of immunotherapy. Pet insurance costs $15 to $75 per month but may have restrictions on pre-existing conditions, so check with your policy for specifics.
FAQs about allergy shots for dogs
Does pet insurance cover dog allergy shots?
Most pet insurance plans cover dog allergy shots, provided the allergies are not pre-existing conditions. Coverage specifics may vary by insurer, so it's essential to check your policy details to understand what is included.
What types of allergies can immunotherapy treat?
Immunotherapy is most effective for environmental allergies (atopy), such as pollen, dust mites, and mold. It's not typically used for food allergies or flea allergies.
Is immunotherapy safe for dogs?
Immunotherapy is generally very safe. Serious side effects are rare, occurring in less than 1% of cases. Mild side effects like temporary increased itching can occur but are usually manageable.
How long does immunotherapy take to work?
Immunotherapy requires patience. It typically takes 6 to 12 months to see significant improvement, and the full course of treatment lasts at least a year. Some dogs may need to continue treatment for life.
Questions to ask your vet about dog allergy shots
When considering allergy shots for your dog, ask your veterinarian these important questions:
Is my dog a good candidate for immunotherapy?
What specific allergens will be included in my dog's treatment?
How long will the immunotherapy treatment last?
What's the expected timeline for seeing improvements in my dog's symptoms?
What are the potential side effects or risks associated with allergy shots?
How often will my dog need to receive injections?
Can I administer the shots at home, or do they need to be given at the clinic?
What's the estimated cost for the entire course of treatment?
Will my dog need to continue other allergy medications during immunotherapy?
How effective is immunotherapy for dogs with my pet's specific allergies?
Are there any alternatives to allergy shots we should consider?
What follow-up care or monitoring will be needed during treatment?
How will we measure the success of the immunotherapy?
What happens if my dog doesn't respond well to the treatment?
Will my dog need booster shots after the initial course of treatment?
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