While human allergies are often associated with sneezing, watery eyes, and coughing, your dog seasonal allergies symptoms are specific. Read on to find out more!
Some dogs also experience itchy skin due to the excrement of fleas. Flea allergies need to be treated differently than environmental allergies. If you think your dog has a flea allergy, consult a vet.
This article will cover the symptoms of seasonal allergies in dogs, how to diagnose them, and the best medication and nutrition for your dog.
Signs of Seasonal Allergies in Dogs
While avoiding the seasonal allergies that plague our dogs is hard, there are ways to minimize their impact.
- First, reduce your dog’s exposure to allergens by keeping its coat and fur as short as possible.
- Wipe off your dog’s fur frequently, focusing on problem areas. Another effective remedy is to choose a dog bed that is easy to clean.
- Your dog may also show red or irritated skin, especially when it rubs against the grass or ground. It may also sneeze. This is a reaction to pollen that has invaded his respiratory system. A discharge from his nose may appear, which is his immune system’s way of defending itself.
- If your dog’s symptoms are more severe, your pet could become prone to bacterial infections.
By following these tips, you can prevent your dog from experiencing any symptoms of allergies.
Causes Dog Seasonal Allergies
Dogs can suffer from food-related and seasonal allergies just like humans. While certain breeds are more susceptible to allergies, most are not. Flat-faced breeds, such as terriers, setters, and retrievers, are typical candidates for seasonal allergies. Below are some common plants that trigger dog allergies during the fall season.
These include –
- Ragweed
- Goldenrod
- Curly Dock
- Lamb’s Quarters
As you can imagine, identifying a dog’s allergies can be tricky. In addition to food, other possible causes of seasonal dog allergies include fleas, pollen, and environmental allergens.
Environmental allergens are the most common cause of fall season allergies in dogs. Many plants in the region release allergens that your dog is sensitive to. If your dog reacts to one of these plants, consult a veterinarian for a prescription.
How Are Seasonal Allergies in Dogs Diagnosed?
Seasonal allergies in dogs are not uncommon. They are usually triggered by specific allergens that are present during certain seasons. The most common symptom of seasonal allergies is redness of the skin. It can be due to contact with allergens or trauma caused by itchiness. Your pet may also develop an infection in the affected area.
If your dog has seasonal allergies, you may notice that he scratches excessively, has a runny nose, or acts out. Your veterinarian can diagnose your dog with allergies and prescribe an allergy shot if necessary.
Though seasonal allergies occur primarily during certain seasons, pets can develop a year-round allergy to the same allergens. Therefore, it is essential to seek medical attention as soon as you notice any signs. Your veterinarian will use several methods to diagnose allergies in dogs, and you should discuss them with your pet.
Medication & Nutrition for Seasonal Dog Allergies
The first step in treating your dog’s seasonal allergies is determining what triggers the problem. Usually, a combination of medication and nutrition is most beneficial. Often, a veterinarian will recommend testing your dog to find out what triggers it. By knowing what triggers it, you can quickly treat a flare-up once it happens. If your dog’s allergy symptoms are more severe than your own, he may need medication.
Some common medications for seasonal dog allergies include Atopica, a cyclosporine-based medicine. This drug works by blocking the immune system’s production of the chemical messenger interleukin-31, which causes allergies in dogs. Atopica is given one to two hours before and after meals. It is essential to see a veterinarian regularly to monitor your dog’s progress. In addition, atopic can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. Getting your dog checked for other diseases is essential, as it can cause side effects in some dogs.
Keep a Dog’s seasonal allergies at Bay with Us!
For many, springtime means warmer weather, chirping birds, and blooming flowers. But for some people, the change of seasons also means seasonal allergies. Aside from the uncomfortable effects on humans, dogs can also suffer from these allergies. Seasonal allergies are most common on the skin, but your pooch may also suffer from respiratory problems and ear infections. If you let your dog suffer from allergies, it can become a constant source of pain and discomfort.
There are several ways to help your dog avoid these seasonal allergy symptoms that cause allergies, including feeding a special diet and changing air conditioner filters regularly. While many dog owners prefer to buy a special diet to avoid allergies, you can also switch to a prescription allergy medication prescribed by your veterinarian.
This approach may not work for all dogs, but it can sometimes be beneficial. A vet can give your dog an antihistamine or a similar over-the-counter allergy medication for mild cases of seasonal allergies. For more information, contact us.
