Spring is finally here! The sun is shining, the flowers are blooming, and the bees are buzzing. Unfortunately, this is also the time for those dreaded seasonal allergies. As you are preparing to face the surplus of pollen that awaits you outside, you should also be mindful of the fact that these allergens affect your pet too. In fact, pet allergies are quite similar to our own.
Symptoms:
What signs then, should you be on the lookout for? The symptoms of your pet’s allergies are typically pretty simple to identify. The following signs could point to seasonal allergies in your pet.
- Excessive shedding
- Scratching and biting of the coat/skin
- Red or inflamed skin
- Consistent paw licking
- Chronic ear infections
Potential causes:
Just like humans, pets can experience allergic reactions to almost anything. With seasonal allergies, substances such as pollen, mold, or dust mites cling to the pet’s fur and enter the respiratory system, causing them to experience the typical irritation that comes along with allergens. The majority of the time, seasonal allergies are nothing to be too concerned about if monitored well. However, if you notice your pet having severe reactions to these allergens, you may need to consult a veterinarian about the next steps.
How to help treat pet seasonal allergies:
Luckily for both you and your furry friend, pet allergies are easy to help soothe. There are numerous ways to ease irritation for your pet, and testing out different things will help you find the best solution. Here are some suggestions
- Bath your pet – Giving your pet a bath will remove any of the allergens from their skin and soothe irritation/redness
- Use OTC allergy medicine – There are a few over-the-counter allergy medicines that are safe for dogs. This includes Benadryl®, Zyrtec®, Claritin®(NOT Claritin-D), and any generic versions of these brands. Do not give your dog any decongestants or any medicine that contains pseudoephedrine. This is very lethal to pets.
- Creams and Gels – You can use various anti-itch gels and creams to prevent excess irritation on your pet’s skin. Do your research before applying a gel to your pet’s skin.
- Food supplements – Fatty acid supplements and fish-based diets help to reduce skin irritation and infection. Consider adding this to your dog’s diet.