• 24 HOUR WALK-IN EMERGENCY HOSPITAL
  • URVET CARE MEDICAL CENTER | 252 EAST 57 STREET
  • (646) 221-1200
  • 24 HOUR WALK-IN E.R.
  • 252 E 57 STREET
  • (646) 221-1200
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That constant scratching, nibbling, or paw licking? It might not be fleas. Many NYC pets suffer from allergies—triggered by everything from street dust to food additives.

In urban environments, allergies tend to be year-round. Unlike seasonal rural allergies, city pets are exposed to a cocktail of triggers daily, especially in apartments with limited airflow and walks in pollution-heavy streets.

Common Allergens in NYC

  • Tree pollen: Especially birch, oak, and plane trees common in city parks

  • Dust mites: Thrive in older buildings and poorly ventilated spaces

  • Mold: Grows in damp areas like basements or bathrooms

  • Construction dust: Frequent in urban renovations

  • Certain proteins in food: Chicken, beef, or dairy are common culprits

Allergy Symptoms in Pets

  • Red, itchy skin or ears

  • Excessive licking or chewing of paws

  • Recurring ear infections

  • Sneezing or runny nose

  • Hair loss or hot spots

Allergies can be misdiagnosed as skin infections or behavioral issues. Accurate diagnosis is key.

Diagnosing Allergies

  • Physical Exam: To rule out other skin or ear conditions

  • Skin or blood testing: To pinpoint environmental triggers

  • Elimination diet trials: To test for food allergies

Treatment Options

  • Topical relief: Medicated shampoos, sprays, and wipes

  • Medications: Antihistamines, steroids, or newer allergy meds like Apoquel or Cytopoint

  • Long-term care: Allergen-specific immunotherapy can reduce sensitivity over time

At-Home Support

  • Clean paws and belly with a damp cloth after walks

  • Vacuum regularly and use air purifiers

  • Bathe pets with hypoallergenic shampoo once or twice a month

  • Feed a high-quality, limited-ingredient diet if food allergy is suspected

Pro Tip: Keep a symptom tracker noting flare-ups by day, weather, and food—your vet can use this to spot patterns.

URvet Care offers full allergy testing and personalized treatment plans so your pet can get back to living their best, itch-free NYC life.

Amanda Stoopler

Co-Founder &
Chief Creative Officer

Amanda Stoopler is an accomplished entrepreneur, interior designer, and the Co-founder and Chief Creative Officer at URVet Care. With a rich background in both the business and creative spheres, Amanda has built a career that bridges her diverse interests and skills seamlessly. 

Amanda’s journey began with key internships with luminary fashion figures such as Zac Posen and Diane Von Furstenberg, complemented by her immersion in the business operations at G-III Apparel Group. These formative experiences laid the groundwork for her unique blend of business acumen and creative vision.

After earning degrees in Psychology and Business Administration from George Washington University, Amanda joined Stonehenge LLC, a prominent real estate firm in New York City. Initially part of the marketing team, her passion for design quickly led her to spearhead the company’s capital improvement projects and new acquisitions. Further enriched by her night classes in Architecture and Design at Parsons, Amanda played a pivotal role in overseeing design for projects within the company’s extensive $3 billion portfolio, showcasing her adeptness in navigating both the aesthetic and commercial facets of large-scale ventures.

At the age of twenty-four, Amanda channeled her passion and expertise into her own venture, founding Amanda Paige Interiors. Her firm has since built a stellar portfolio, featuring a wide array of both commercial and residential projects across domestic and international arenas.

Amanda’s role at URVet Care epitomizes her commitment to blending creativity with care. Drawing from personal experiences in both human and veterinary medicine, along with industry knowledge, Amanda leverages her profound experience in design and marketing to lead all creative facets at URVet Care. Her unique perspective and professional acumen drive the brand’s vision of enhancing veterinary care through thoughtful design and impactful leadership.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Amanda finds joy and inspiration in family time, exploring art galleries, and engaging in activities such as tennis and global travel. These experiences enrich her perspective and fuel her continuous drive for innovation and excellence in every project she undertakes.