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Does Your Dog Has Seasonal Allergies?
Has your dog been behaving differently recently? It may be displaying strange behaviours like scratching or licking itself more often than usual, or the symptoms of these illnesses have been noticeable since the warmer weather came around. Is there anything unusual on your dogs’ ears or eyes that might suggest they are developing an allergy? For the majority of dogs, allergies can make life miserable. When spring, summer and fall come along, you may notice an increase in symptoms. Allergy symptoms typically spike every season—just like in humans.
Seasonal allergies are a common ailment for many people. However, there are alternatives to traditional treatment methods which can help us enjoy the outdoors without itchy eyes and inflamed sinuses like our pet might have. These remedies include switching to air purifiers, taking antihistamines, and humidifying the air in your home.
Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies in Dogs?
People must understand that dogs have different symptoms of allergies depending on what type of allergies they have. It’s also important to note that the symptoms are physical and mental.
10 Most Common Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies In Dogs:
- Dogs experiencing dry, red, itching paws because of allergies
- Dogs will start scratching and licking at their furry faces because they are affected by seasonal allergy itchiness.
- Dogs have seasonal allergies that might lead to hair shedding.
- Dogs tend to bite anywhere on their skin because of the hives they get from an itchy coat, especially with allergies.
- Many dogs suffer from allergies and may start to lick their bottoms, as they may have a lot of saliva that can help ease symptoms.
- You notice your dog’s ears are red, odd-shaped, smell awful, or swollen. They could be an indicator of allergies. Please consult with your vet!
- Skin that has turned red, or is swollen & painful, may be infected.
- Your dog sneezing more than usual is a sign of allergies in dogs.
- The dog has unusually dark or thick skin because of allergies.
- A dog has itchy skin and is constantly scratching.
Commonly affected areas of a dog’s body include:
If you notice redness, itching and a runny nose around the eyes when they come out, make an appointment with your vet. Symptoms like that can be signs of seasonal allergies. Early detection and treatment are critical to managing them.
Paws
Dogs often lick their paws as part of the grooming process, but compulsive paw licking can indicate something different. For instance, allergies can make your dog exhibit “facial rubbing” behaviour, which is related to histamines in your pet’s system.
Animal allergies can cause irritable and uncomfortable symptoms for the afflicted. “When dogs have allergies, they push out the histamines and they push them toward their extremities,” such as their ears, paws, back end or face.
Ears
Skin and ears can both be vulnerable to allergens, but dogs are susceptible to pollen. It can cause red, irritated ears that may become infected. The leading cause of smelly, stinky ears is dogs- and any pet left in a warm environment. Although mild discomfort may present with other signs, your dog may also show an initial head shaking.
Eyes
Watery eyes may be a sign of allergies in dogs. Sometimes, this symptom will happen without other related characters and may show as a green or yellow discharge and a reddish colour seen around the eyes.
Some people are more likely to experience allergic symptoms than others. Dogs often experience some of the same symptoms, like red and puffy eyes and hair loss around the eye area. It’s important to know that even though dogs don’t typically get red or itchy eyes, they may still have one or both eyes affected by allergies.
Muzzle
If your dog is rubbing their face against surfaces at home, it could indicate that they are feeling itchiness. Face rubbing is a natural response for some dogs when they feel uncomfortable.
Dogs love to rub their bodies against objects because it helps them scratch the itchiness of many skin diseases and allergies. The problem is some surfaces may not be as durable as other materials, leading to much destruction.
Head-Shaking
Dogs often shake their head when they feel uncomfortable because scratching their head can relieve a lot of the irritation and discomfort. It is especially true for dogs prone to allergies and those with skin conditions on their heads.
Skin Hives
When your pets are exposed to allergens, they can develop a rash or hives, common in places like their back and belly.
The condition of seeing hives on your pet’s body is not uncommon and may include raised bumps or areas of red, inflamed tissue.
Loss of Hair
Allergies are a fairly common condition, especially in dogs. The scratching and inflammation of the skin can lead to hair thinning and shedding. Because some dogs may nibble and bite at their skin, some experience hair loss. Some dogs may have less hair due to environmental allergies and skin inflammation.
The cause of seasonal allergies in a dog is unknown, but it’s thought that weather changes and pollutants affect some dogs differently than others.
Dogs with a history of developing seasonal allergies may be sensitive to the environment. Keep an eye on these:
- Pollen from trees, such as cedar, ash and oak, can affect pets’ allergies.
- Weed pollen can affect your pet for various reasons, but thankfully there is now a range of treatments that can help.
- Some grasses may have the potential to affect a dog’s health.
- Spores from mold can have a long-lasting effect on my dog’s health.
- Mold can also be an issue for dogs, so cleaning and moving them as often as possible will help prevent severe conditions.
- Dust mites can contribute to several health problems for your dog.
Unlike humans, dogs breathe in particles that aggregate with their skin. These airborne particles can be hard to remove, leading to a build-up of allergens that affect the dog’s health.
The skin is the first line of defense against allergens. If your dog’s skin can’t properly block allergens, it triggers its immune system.
Upon exposure to allergens, your dog’s immune system can overreact and cause inflammation. This inflammation may lead to the common signs of allergies, such as itching and excessive scratching.
Dogs can develop allergies anytime, but they are more common during spring and summer due to higher pollen levels and other environmental allergens.
Allergies in dogs can be troublesome and often painful condition. As with humans, the severity of allergies varies between individual dogs, depending on what triggers the allergic response. While some allergies are seasonal, others can be year-round, requiring ongoing management and care to ensure your pet’s comfort and health. By understanding what triggers allergic responses in your dog, you can better manage their allergies throughout the year.
Generally, allergies caused by tree, grass, and weed pollen are seasonal. It means your dog will mostly show symptoms during specific months of the year.
If your pup struggles more with skin irritations during the spring and summer months, it could be due to pollen allergies from weeds, grass and trees. To help combat this, ensure you wipe their coat & paws when they come back inside. Doing so will remove any allergens that may have attached themselves to their furry coat.
Treating Seasonal Allergies in Dogs?
Seasonal allergies in dogs can be a complex problem to deal with. Thankfully, there are a few ways to help your pup cope with their allergies and minimize the symptoms. From particular diet changes to medication, several options are available for pet owners looking to treat their dog’s seasonal allergies. In this article, we’ll go over the various treatments for seasonal allergies in dogs and how you can best care for your pup during allergy season.
Avoiding Allergens will Help Your Dog and Family Members Stay Healthy
Seasonal allergies can be a nuisance, significantly affecting our beloved pets. While avoiding allergens is the best treatment option for humans, this may not be the perfect solution for our furry friends. Pollen is airborne allergens that can travel in the air for miles, making it hard to keep your pet from them altogether. Thankfully, other treatments are available that may help reduce your pet’s seasonal allergy symptoms and make them more comfortable during allergy season.
Reduce Exposure to Allergens in your Home
Washing your dog’s bedding weekly in hot, soapy water and drying it on a hot dryer cycle will help kill dust mites, ensuring your canine companion is safe from the harmful effects of these pests. By washing their bedding regularly, you can keep your pup comfortable and free from discomfort caused by dust mites.
Vacuuming soft surfaces, such as carpeting and couches, effectively reduces pet dander, dust mites, and other allergens that can trigger human allergies. Regular vacuuming keeps your home clean and helps keep your dog healthy by reducing allergy-causing particles in the air.
Having a Pet can be a Source of Joy and Companionship, but it can also distress those with Allergies.
One way to help mitigate the effects of pet allergens is to use hardwood or linoleum flooring and washable area rugs in your home. These materials are easier to clean and help reduce the amount of pet dander in carpets and fabrics. Not only does it keep the air in your home healthier, but it also gives your carpets and floors a longer lifespan. With the help of a vacuum cleaner, your floors and carpets will look as good as new in no time.
A High-Efficiency Air (HEPA) Filter
(HEPA) the filter can help reduce allergens from your pet dog, making it easier to breathe and live comfortably in your home. These vacuums are designed to capture and trap 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, making them more effective than traditional vacuum filters at removing allergens such as pet dander and dust mites. HEPA vacuums are an excellent way to create a healthier home environment for everyone in the family – including your
The most effective method is to use air conditioning rather than open windows.
Air conditioning systems can filter out allergens and create a more comfortable environment. Additionally, air conditioning units can also help regulate temperature, humidity and moisture levels which are all factors that affect indoor air quality.
If your pup is prone to allergies, hard, washable chew toys are the way to go.
Not only do they provide hours of entertainment for your puppy, but they also help keep allergens at bay. Unlike plush toys, these chew toys can be washed regularly and help keep your pup’s environment clean and allergen-free.
Use Antihistamines Treatment
Seasonal allergies can be a nuisance for humans and animals, and antihistamine medications are often the best way to combat them. Antihistamines work by blocking histamines, substances released in response to allergens, resulting in symptoms such as sneezing and itching. Examples of antihistamines that treat seasonal dog allergies include Claritin, Zyrtec, Allegra and Benadryl. With their help, you can keep your pup happy and healthy during allergy season.
Anti-inflammatory can help with Dog Allergies.
Allergies can be frustrating and uncomfortable for pets and their owners. Thankfully, treatment with steroid medications can be an effective way to block the allergic reaction and stop the itching. Your veterinarian may prescribe corticosteroids, antihistamines and other immuno-suppressive drugs to reduce inflammation and relieve your pet’s allergy symptoms. With proper treatment, you can help restore your pet’s comfort and well-being.
Hypoallergenic Shampoo
Bathing your dog can be a great way to soothe inflamed skin and reduce the appearance of allergens. Using a hypoallergenic shampoo specifically designed for dogs can help reduce irritation and discomfort in your pup while also providing relief from any allergens they may be exposed to. Vacuums on bathing and wiping down their coat and skin often also help wash out any allergens that have been picked up by your puppy, leaving them feeling refreshed and healthy. It’s always best to consult your veterinarian when purchasing shampoo for your pup.
Allergy Medications
Allergy shots are a common choice for pet parents seeking relief from their dog’s allergy symptoms. However, they require a long-term commitment from the owner and are not a quick fix. Treatment with allergy shots in dogs often takes months to show signs of improvement, with most dogs and pet parents not seeing any progress until after six months to 1 year.
How to Manage Your Dog’s Allergy Symptoms with Home Remedies
Dogs are everyday companions for many people, and they usually love to stay close to their owners. However, there are times when dogs can be allergic to certain things, such as pollen or dust. It can cause them to sneeze, itch, or have watery eyes.
If you want your dog’s allergies to be under controlled at home without the use of medication, you should try these remedies that work wonders:
Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is a popular remedy for relieving dogs’ paws from itching. Spray this natural solution on your pup’s paws, and it will quickly help to soothe the itchiness. With its antiseptic properties, you can also use hydrogen peroxide to clean wounds and prevent infection. Not only will it help your pup feel better, but it is also safe and easy to use.
Vinegar
Vinegar is a powerful yet gentle remedy for your dog’s ailments. Mixed with a bowl of warm water can help clear up issues such as breathing difficulties and cloudy eyes. Not only is it natural and affordable, but it’s also an effective way to keep your pup healthy and happy.
Baking Soda
Baking soda is a natural remedy to help keep your dog healthy and happy. When mixed with water in a dish and let your dog lick it off, baking soda can help soothe their throat, freshen their breath, and even reduce the severity of an allergy attack. It’s an easy, inexpensive way to care for your pet’s well-being.
Warm Milk
Warm milk is one of the best home remedies for dogs with allergies. Not only does it help reduce inflammation in their bodies, but it also soothes their digestive systems and boosts digestion. Because warm milk contains calming ingredients like tryptophan, this home remedy can help reduce stress in your pup and promote a healthier lifestyle.
What are the best Treats to Keep on Hand When You Have a Dog With an Allergy?
When your dog has an allergy, you need to be extra careful. That’s why it’s essential to have some treats on hand when you have a dog with an allergy. Here are the best treats that are safe for dogs with allergies:
Almond Butter
Almond butter is a tasty and healthy treat for dogs, especially those with allergies. It can be used as an alternative to other nut butter, as it contains fewer allergens and it’s easier to digest. It can be used as a topping on food or treats or as a snack in its own right. Not only is almond butter beneficial for dogs with allergies, but it also provides essential vitamins and minerals for overall health.
Apple Sauce (no sugar added)
Apple Sauce is quickly becoming popular among pet owners for its health benefits. Not only is it packed with essential vitamins and minerals, but it also helps to reduce allergens in dogs. By providing a healthy alternative to traditional treats that are high in sugar, apple sauce (no sugar added) can help keep your canine friend healthy and happy.
Rawhide Treats
Rawhide Treats are an ideal way to provide your dog with a delicious snack while also helping to alleviate allergens. These treats are made from natural, organic rawhide and come in various shapes and flavours, allowing you to find the perfect treat for your pup. Not only do rawhide treats help with allergens, but they also help maintain healthy gums, teeth, and jaws.
Chicken Jerky
Chicken Jerky is a great way to help reduce allergens in the home. This delicious treat is protein and low in fat, an excellent choice for any pup. It also contains beneficial vitamins and minerals, which can improve your dog’s overall health. With chicken jerky being so easy to prepare and serve, it’s no wonder why more pet owners are turning to this convenient solution to keep their furry friends healthy and happy!
Peanut Butter and Jelly (PB&J) Sandwiches
PB&J Sandwiches are becoming increasingly popular to help dogs with allergies. PB&J is an affordable and convenient solution that can relieve allergens such as pollen, dust mites, and dander. Not only does it offer a nutritious meal for your pup, but you can also use it to reduce symptoms associated with allergies. So if your dog suffers from allergies, try giving them a PB&J sandwich!
Conclusion
Allergy season can be a dreaded time for pet parents watching their beloved canine companions suffer from seasonal allergies. It’s not just humans that react to seasonal allergies; Dogs too! Thankfully, pet parents have options to help their four-legged friends find relief from seasonal allergies and live comfortably throughout the year.
For humans, allergens enter the upper respiratory system resulting in sneezing and coughing. But for dogs, allergens enter the skin and cause inflammation, itching, and scratching. As a pet owner, it’s vital to understand how allergens affect our furry friends and what steps we can take to reduce their discomfort.
Seasonal allergies are a common affliction for humans and their pets, causing sneezing, congestion, and other uncomfortable symptoms. Fortunately, while there is no cure for seasonal allergies, various treatments are available to help allergies.
If your dog has seasonal allergies, it’s essential to seek advice from your veterinarian to find the best treatment plan for your pet’s specific needs.
