Like us, dogs can experience allergic reactions too. Dog allergies are triggered whenever a dog’s body reacts to a certain type of allergen. Some of the most common allergens are found in food, other animals/insects, as well as in the environment. Don’t be surprised if your dog reacts to pollen, mold, and dust as it can sometimes be difficult to pinpoint where allergic reactions come from. If you’re unsure where to start, consult your veterinarian!
How can you tell if your dog has seasonal allergies?
When dealing with seasonal allergies, or allergic reactions in general, the best course of action is to visit your veterinarian. According to VCA Hospitals, veterinarians can administer allergy testing using two techniques: intradermal skin testing or RAST (radioallergosorbent) test. Your veterinarian may also suggest isolating certain types of food to see if your dog has food allergies.
As a responsible pet parent, it’s also imperative that you familiarize yourself with the most common allergy symptoms so that you’re aware if your best pal is experiencing an allergic reaction. Check some of them below:
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Swelling of the face, ears, lips
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Hives
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Itchiness
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Vomiting
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Diarrhea
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Sneezing
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Itchy and runny eyes
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Constant licking of paws
How can you help your dog with seasonal allergies?
Here are a few things to take note of to help control any discomfort your dog may experience during an allergic reaction.
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Work with your veterinarian
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Working with your veterinarian will enable you to find the root cause of your dog’s allergy. The first step to dealing with pet allergies is understanding its causes and getting them the appropriate allergy treatment that they need. Fortunately, your vet would be able to administer the necessary test to nail down the specific cause of your pup’s allergies.
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Take note of pollen levels
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Before going out on your morning walk, make sure to make a habit of checking pollen levels first. It would be wise to avoid walking your dog through fields and parks when pollen levels are typically highest.
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Keep them clean
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This should be a no-brainer but keeping your pup clean is another way to help curb your dog’s allergic reactions. When you return home, wiping your dog’s body and paws may help remove excess pollen, dust, and other allergens that may further harm your pup.
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Don’t forget to give them a bath regularly
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It’s important to remember that wiping your pup clean every time you go out should not be a substitute for a regular bath. Frequent bathing (about once or twice a week) may help decrease itching and keep your pup’s skin and coat fresh and clean. Check every nook and cranny (such as the ears) to ensure that allergens from grass, pollen, and dust are removed from your dog’s coat.
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Keep your house clean
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Keeping your house clean is another surefire way to help your dog with their seasonal allergies. Vacuum at least once a week and thoroughly clean the spaces where your dog spends time the most. Regularly change air filters as well to reduce airborne allergens that enter your home.
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Choose the right dog food
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Your pup’s dog food may also be the source of their allergic reaction. As mentioned above, it would be best to consult your veterinarian if you suspect that your dog is experiencing an allergic reaction. Only then will you be able to make sure where the reactions are coming from and rule out suspected factors that may be contributing to your pup’s itchiness.
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Consider allergy and/or skin and coat supplements
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Supplementing your dog’s diet may address your pup’s itchiness and may also improve their skin health. Look for dietary supplements rich in omega fatty acids, fish oil, and other natural ingredients like kelp and colostrum to help regulate your pup’s allergic reactions while also boosting their immune system.
