A Veterinarian’s Take on Helping Your Dog Through Allergy Season
Spring is here and with it comes those seasonal allergies that has so many of us irritable and uncomfortable. Did you know, just like humans, dogs can also suffer from this pesky condition?
That’s right!
Dogs can also be susceptible to allergies caused by changing seasons; the blooming flowers, the floating pollen, and even mold.
So, how can you help your furry family member through his allergy fog this year?
My Dog Spot was lucky enough to sit down with Dr. Evelyn from Petsadena Animal Hospital in South Pasadena to learn all about seasonal allergies in dogs and how we can help make them feel better.
Watch our sit down interview with Dr. Evelyn here:
What Are the Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies in My Dog?
With 10 years practicing veterinary medicine and now owning and operating her own practice, Dr. Evelyn is certainly an expert when it comes to dogs and their seasonal allergy woes.
While I was surprised to learn that dogs can suffer from seasonal allergies just like humans, Dr. Evelyn informed me that allergies in dogs are pretty common.
So, how do you know if your dog is suffering from seasonal allergies?
Dr. Evelyn points out that there are a number of symptoms to look out for, the most common being
- Excessive itching
- Excessive licking
- Chewing or licking at the paws
- Clear and watery eyes and nose
- Red and itchy eyes
- Sneezing
How Can I Tell the Difference Between Seasonal Allergies and A Cold in My Dog?
If your dog is sneezing, excessively licking and chewing at himself, and has a discharge running from his nose and eyes, you may immediately assume he is sick.
But don’t worry, according to Dr. Evelyn, as long as that discharge is clear and your dog is otherwise acting normal, it’s likely just annoying seasonal allergies at work.
Cold symptoms, says Dr. Evelyn, usually come with behavioral changes such as
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargic behavior
- And green or yellowish discharge from the nose and eyes.
What Are Some Things I Can Do to Help My Dog Get Through His Seasonal Allergies?
If you’ve ever had allergies, you know it’s not fun. So, how can we, as dog parents, help our dogs get through this annoying time of year?
Dr. Evelyn points out that there are a number of ways to help our four-legged fur babies through allergy season.
If you notice your dog is excessively licking, itching, or scratching, it can be soothing to bath him or her in a high-quality dog shampoo made of oatmeal.
You can also opt to wipe your dog down after walks or backyard outings with an unscented baby wipe, especially focussing on his paws and pads.
If you notice that your dog’s eyes are extra watery and red, a saline solution is a great way to wash away any pollen or debris that may be causing the irritation.
Over the counter antihistamines can also work wonders with your dog’s allergies, although Dr. Evelyn stresses the importance of contacting your veterinarian for the proper type and dosage before ever giving your dog any medication.
Exactly How Long do Seasonal Allergy Symptoms Last?
Unfortunately, different dogs will have different symptoms, and depending on what your dog is allergic to will determine how long the allergy symptoms will last.
While some dogs will only suffer from seasonal allergies between late winter and early spring, others can develop allergies year-round. As Dr. Evelyn points out, dogs can generally be allergic to things like grass and mold.
When is it Time to Bring My Dog into the Vet with Seasonal Allergies?
According to Dr. Evelyn most often seasonal allergies are more annoying than dangerous but there can be instances that require veterinary care.
For example, if your dog is itching and licking so excessively due to allergies that he or she has created a sore or open wound on their skin, it may be time to seek professional assistance before an infection occurs.
Furthermore, if you notice that the discharge coming from your dog’s nose and eyes has gone from clear to green or yellow, chances are the allergies have turned into a cold or infection and it is time to take your dog in.
You should also keep an eye on your dog’s inner ears. Brown or waxy looking build-up can be a sign of an allergy-turned infection.
Of course, if your dog is acting overall lethargic, has lost his appetite, or his skin has become red, irritated, or scabbed, it is also time to see your vet.
Does your dog suffer from seasonal allergies?
For more on seasonal allergies or to learn about Dr. Evelyn and Petsadena Animal Hospital, visit www.Petsadena.com!
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