Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:After my dog being on Apoquel for 2 years, I would try to avoid it at all costs. I had no idea it could be a potential issue with long-term use until my vet casually mentioned he shouldn't be on it long-term after TWO YEARS. It's almost $90 per month and once they start it, it is really difficult to quit it. Every time I cut back the paw chewing started back within days. We moved to wiping paws when coming back inside. Added salmon oil to their diet along with a probiotic. We use a cone to help with chewing and licking. It's been a few months and my dog is doing much better without Apoquel.

Interested to hear more PP - I’m the one who asked if anybody else’s dog has worse allergies this spring and we’ve been on apoquel for a while. Did you see any problems? Do you see the same relief with salmon oil and the probiotic? Can I ask what oil and probiotic your dog is on? Would love any kind of relief for my dog right now.

Yes, things have been a lot better. One of my dogs will lick his paws more than I like but no chewing like before, so none of the irritation and potential for infection that required antibiotics. Part of this is figuring out if it is environmental vs dietary. I'm still not quite positive but tackling both has helped a lot. And my dogs have never pooped better lol I use Zesty paws salmon oil and the probiotic. Last month I also added Quecertin with Bromelain. And wipe them down as much as possible when we come inside. That does get a little tiresome but anything is better than vet visits and having to stay on Apoquel. Really helpful article here on Apoquel alternatives:
https://ultimatedog.com/5-apoquel-alternatives-that-are-better-for-your-dog/

Apoquel helps my doodle, but washing him off helps even more.

My dog was licking her paws quite a lot, but a food change has almost eliminated it. Now this spring I am noticing a little bit of the drippy eyes and some sneezing, but no licking. The first food change I made resulted in MORE licking so definitely can be some trial and error