If you get itchy and sneezy every spring, or you’re triggered by fall pollen then you know just how disruptive and uncomfortable seasonal allergies can be. The same is true for your dog. Pets can experience seasonal allergies, too. And dogs, in particular, can be seriously affected by environmental allergens during certain times of the year.
What Are Seasonal Allergies?
Dogs can be born with seasonal allergies or they can develop them as they age. Either way, they’re no walk in the park for Fido! Dogs experience seasonal allergies when they come into contact with an allergen that is exclusive to a particular season. Your pet might inhale pollen that causes him to react, he might step on some grasses that give him a rash or he might roll around in a pile of plants that leave him itchy as can be. There are lots of ways your dog might come in contact with the allergen that’s bothering him!
How Do Dogs React To Seasonal Allergies?
When your dog comes into contact with an allergen, his immune system kicks things into high gear and goes above and beyond the call of duty. It perceives the allergen as a threat, even though it doesn’t actually cause harm. Your pet’s body then releases histamines to fight its perceived threat--the allergen. ]This leads to an allergic reaction during which your dog will likely experience some pretty uncomfortable things.
Here are some of the symptoms your dog might experience if he is experiencing seasonal allergies:
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Itchy, Itchy Skin: In dogs, allergies almost always result in itchy skin. Your pup will likely feel the urge to scratch, bite and claw himself to try and find relief!
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Runny Nose: Just like us humans, your dog will likely have a runny, drippy nose when he’s experiencing seasonal allergies.
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Inflammation: Your dog’s inflammatory response is almost always amplified during an allergic reaction and can be experienced both internally and externally. Your dog might have red, inflamed skin and have issues with internal inflammation, as well.
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Watery Eyes: If your dog looks like he's been crying, seasonal allergies could be to blame. When he’s reacting to an allergen, this is a common response.
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Sneezing & Wheezing: If your dog is wheezing or sneezing, allergies could be to blame. They often affect your pet’s respiratory system, in addition to his immune system, and can cause him to have trouble breathing.
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Hair Loss: Your dog could lose hair in some areas and experience bald spots when his immune system is working overtime and reacting to seasonal allergens.
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Ear Issues: Your pet will likely have itchy ears, too! He might develop an ear infection, or just be annoyed by uncomfortable, itchy ears.
- Excessive Licking: sometimes when dogs are agitated or otherwise uncomfortable they get to licking. If you notice your dog is rooming himself to the extreme, seasonal allergies could be to blame.
What Causes Dog Seasonal Allergies?
Your dog could, in theory, be allergic to just about anything. That said, when it comes to seasonal allergies, there are certain ‘irritants’ that commonly cause issues for dogs. Here are some of the things that could trigger an allergic reaction for your dog:
- Dust
- Pollen
- Grass
- Weeds
- Mold
- Fungi
- Fleas
How Can You Help Your Dog With Seasonal Allergies?
While every dog experiences different symptoms and reacts to various allergens, there are plenty of things you can do to support dogs with seasonal allergies at home. If you suspect your pet has allergies, get him to the Vet to discuss his health with a professional. Your Vet will be able to test your dog to help you pinpoint what it is that’s causing an allergic reaction so you can avoid the allergen in the future. After visiting the Vet, consider doing these things, as well:
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Avoid peak pollen times: Getting regular exercise and spending time outdoors is important to your pet’s health, but when it’s allergy season, avoid taking walks at peak pollen time. There are certain times of the day that are more pollen-filled than others, so schedule your exercise time around those prime times!
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Get cleaning! Clean your house from top to bottom if your dog is experiencing seasonal allergies. Pollen, dust, and mites that can agitate Fido can make themselves at home in your carpet, rugs, couches, and other areas around your home. Help your pet by cleaning everything, and frequently, during seasonal allergy season.
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Try Skin-Soothing Treatments: If your pup’s skin is raw and red because he’s so itchy, draw him up a bath and use a medicated shampoo. Look for ingredients that will help calm down your dog’s skin and help it heal. Or, reach for a medicated soak that your dog can relax in to help his irritated skin.
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Add Supplements For Allergy Support: Look for allergy-fighting supplements that contain ingredients that target your dog’s immune system, since it could use the extra help when your dog is having an allergic reaction. Antioxidants, probiotics, and Omega Fatty Acids are all nutrients that will help your allergy pet get better.
- Reduce Stress: Your dog’s emotional state of mind greatly affects his overall health, especially when he’s reacting to seasonal allergies. Make sure you’re sticking to schedules, providing your pup with plenty of TLC and quality time, and consider calming nutrients like hemp or chamomile to help your dog destress.
PetHonesty Products Formulated To Help With Seasonal Allergies
Allergy Support Chews are packed with antioxidant-rich ingredients that support your dog’s immune system, which is especially important when he’s dealing with seasonal allergies. The blend includes Quercetin, Colostrum, Fish Oil, and more. Or, pick up a jar of Advanced Allergy SkinHealth Chews. They include an allergy-fighting ingredient list with Vitamin C, Echinacea Root, and more. Both are excellent options to support your dog during allergy season and all year round.
Sources:
https://www.dogtopia.com/blog/dog-seasonal-allergies/
https://vetericyn.com/blog/signs-and-symptoms-of-seasonal-allergies-in-dogs/
https://www.vetdermclinic.com/13-signs-your-dog-has-pollen-allergies/
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/dog-allergies-symptoms-treatment/
