We believe our dog may have an allergy to her food. She’s been tested for everything possible, and the tests were all negative.

The doctors recommended feeding her venison and sweet potatoes for at least 60 days. Is there anything easier we can do?

True food allergies are rare, accounting for fewer than 10 percent of all pet allergies. The special diet you mention will help determine if a food allergy exists.

Feeding a better diet, free of chemicals, can be helpful. I recommend a homemade diet, using fresh, organic ingredients.

Don’t vaccinate pets when their skin is bad; hold off on these until your pet is feeling better, and then choose which, if any, vaccines are needed based upon antibody titer testing.

Consider supplements such as fish oil and antioxidants to decrease inflammation.

Shampoo therapy with aloe vera and oatmeal can help clean the skin and reduce inflammation.

My 17-year-old healthy female cat has been using Advantage flea control for six years. The past few applications have made her lethargic for a couple of days. I’m considering switching to something else, but what? Or should I just wait until flea infestation and apply rather than use a preventative?

First, I usually don’t recommend year-round use of chemical flea control. Use flea control only if needed. For some, this means starting flea control when fleas are seen. For others, this means starting flea control in late spring and stopping in early fall. If flea control is needed, natural alternatives such as herbal shampoos and powders are best.

Because your cat has had a reaction to medication, I advise against using it again.