Blood work will be performed on your pet after the physical examination, which is the first step. Bloodwork will provide information as to how the internal organs are functioning after the allergic reaction to the olive oil. A complete blood count (CBC) and chemistry panel will provide the veterinarian with needed information for proper assessment. A packed cell volume (PCV) may also be performed to determine hydration status, specifically if your pet has diarrhea or gastrointestinal upset. If your veterinarian feels it is necessary, she may also perform a urinalysis for further evaluation of kidney function.
Bicom testing, intradermal allergen investigation, and analysis by serum allergy test are options for diagnosing the olive oil allergy. Your veterinarian will discuss these diagnostic methods with you, and together you can determine the viability of use in your pet’s situation.
A dietary trial is the most frequently used method for a food allergy. In a dietary trial, you have to feed your dog a novel diet, meaning you feed him a diet without excessive olive oil. You have to feed your dog the novel diet for at least 90 days before you can get a reliable diagnostic. After the 90 days, if resolution of the allergic signs occurs, you then must reintroduce the olive oil to his diet. If a relapse in allergy symptoms occurs once olive oil is reintroduced, then you know the source.