TREATING YOUR DOG FOR SEASONAL ALLERGIES

TUE, 08 SEP 2015 BY LINDA ROSADO

It’s almost time for crisp air and crunchy leaves, not to mention cooler autumn weather. With the changing of the seasons also comes a perennial downer: allergy season. While you think you may be suffering the worst with watery eyes and constant sniffling, you may not be. Your furry companions are susceptible to allergies too, albeit with different symptoms. Allergies in dogs (and even cats) are a real problem and all too common. The most common allergy, atopy, causes skin irritation, such as in the paws or face. Learning the types of allergies your dog can face will help you prepare for a better change of seasons.

ATOPY

As mentioned above, atopy is often seasonal and can be an allergic reaction to inhaling grass, weed and tree pollens. However, the appearance of mold, mildew and dust mites is possible year round and may cause your dog to chew at its feet, rub its face or lick its side. The peak time this comes into play is winter, when more time is spent inside. The best method of prevention is to eliminate your dog’s exposure to the substance. For example, if lawn chemicals are creating reactions in your dog, keep your dog inside. Aside from isolating the problem, a clean home environment lowers the risk of irritation and will make your dog content.

CONTACT ALLERGY

An allergic reaction from your dog coming into contact with carpets, cleaning chemicals or plastic is not as likely, but it is possible. Bumpy skin on the stomach, bottom of the paws, or anywhere else the material touched your dog are signs that your dog interacted with allergens. Once the material is removed, or you remove it from your dog through frequent bathing or antibiotics, your canine companion’s disposition will greatly increase. Be wary of not seeing changed behavior in your pup—a general redness is also a sign that allergies persist.

FOOD ALLERGY

Like humans, dogs can experience food allergies with adverse effects. Also similarly, these allergies can occur simultaneously as contact allergies. You may find the usual itching in patches of skin, but ear yeast infections may come into play. For some dogs, the side effects include increased bowel movements. When you walk your dog, look for signs of soft or unusual stool before disposing of waste at a DOGIPOT® Pet Waste Station. One of the best ways to relieve symptoms is to double-check the food you serve your dog. Feeding your dog high quality dog food with the right nutrients and supplements will reduce food allergies and boost the overall health of your dog.

Being equipped with the knowledge of dog allergies is the first step to treating them in your dog. More intense treatments such as a diet trial and medication will be used if needed, but with a careful watch over your dog, it can easily be avoided. Noting the season and the areas affected in your dog will make alleviating symptoms much easier and prolong a happier and allergen-free life for your canine.

Does your dog have any allergies? How do you make sure she’s comfortable and healthy during allergy season? Let us know on our Facebook!