"not For Dogs Allergic To Shellfish" - How To Know?

[Rickiesmom]

I want to start Jaynie on a new joint supplement called 4Cyte.

 

It is contraindicated if your dog is allergic to shellfish. I have no idea if Jaynie has ever eaten shellfish. So as dumb as I feel asking this question, what do I do if I give her some of this and she has an allergic reaction? Is having Benedryl on-hand enough?

 

The product comes in granules, and I was thinking of just giving her a very small amount to start with, specifically to see if she has a reaction. I have no idea how severe that might be, and don't want to be critical time away from the clinic if she were to go into anaphylactic shock. I was actually thinking maybe I should try it the first time when we are at the vet, but maybe that is too paranoid.

 

I know there are other joint supplements out there, and I am not, at this time anyway, asking for recommendations for alternatives. I just want to be sure I take appropriate precautions before giving it to her.

 

Thank you for your thoughts!

[Batmom]

AFAIK anaphylaxis isn't a common food-allergy reaction in dogs. 'Course, it isn't *common* in people either ..... If it's something you really want to give, I would start with a small amount and plan to be with her for an hour or two the first 3-4 times you give it.

 

Have you given other joint supplements in the past? Quite a few list green-lipped mussel as an ingredient.

[Rickiesmom]

That is a good idea - should have thought of it myself. Looked back and yes, one of her supplements had the green-lipped mussels, so we should be OK.

 

Thank you!