Allergy Season is Nothing to Sneeze At

Spring is here and the weather is getting warmer and plants are blooming. This all sounds wonderful unless your dog is suffering from seasonal allergies.

Does My Dog Have Seasonal Allergies?

Allergies in dogs are very common. They develop anywhere from dogs aged 6 months to 2 years old. It can be difficult to diagnose allergies because dogs may display different symptoms. Common symptoms include scratching, licking, biting, sneezing and watery eyes. These symptoms may be caused by insects (fleas), the environment, or food. If you suspect your dog has seasonal allergies, it’s best to consult with a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment options.

How Can I Treat My Dog For Seasonal Allergies At Home?

Once you and your veterinarian confirm that seasonal allergies are affecting your dog, you may consider the following treatments to help deal with the annoying symptoms

General health – Make sure your dog is eating well, exercising daily and getting enough rest so they can combat those pesky allergies.

Bath – Keeping your pup’s coat clean and free from allergens is a great first step. Wet dog thoroughly with room temperature water. Gently work shampoo into coat, taking care to avoid sensitive areas like eyes and the ear canal. Rinse thoroughly and towel-dry right away to avoid chilling. Daily brushing will also help keep their coat clean.

Humidifier – If your dog is congested a humidifier can help relieve the congestion. Another way to simulate a humidifier is to take your dog into the bathroom and run the shower on hot. The steam will work like a humidifier. The dog only needs to be in the bathroom and not directly under the hot water.

Air Purifier – Install an air purifier where your dog spends most of their time indoors. This will help catch any allergens floating in the air. This will help your allergies too.

Supplements –  Taking a daily allergy supplement can help as well. Look for active ingredients like quercetin, vitamin C and other ingredients that support skin and coat. Citrus bioflavonoids enhance the bioavailability of vitamin C. Vitamin E will also support healthy skin and coat.

First Aid Products – You may be able to soothe and heal any sore spots with topical sprays like Anti-Itch Spray or Hydrocortisone Spray. We would recommend adding an e-collar to keep them from excessive licking and chewing.

Medicine – For severe allergies, your veterinarian may prescribe medication to treat the symptoms.

Whether they like to run, chase balls, go for a long walk or just sunbathe, help your pup enjoy it all by keeping their allergy symptoms in check.

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If you are concerned about your pet’s health, please contact your veterinarian to rule out a serious medical problem.