After a long and dark winter, you and your dog are probably itching to get outdoors and enjoy the sun again. However, while spring is an ideal season for exploring, it’s also a prime one for pet allergens. Rather than skip the fun altogether, there are a few mindful ways to reduce and prevent your pet’s allergy discomforts this season. Read on to learn more.
What are the sources of allergens?
There are a handful of common and pesky allergens during spring. However, according to Pets Best, dogs and cats can have allergic reactions to a variety of common environmental and household substances, but can be especially prone to the extra pollen in the grass and air. Other common environmental causes of pet allergies include:
- Dust
- Dust mites
- Grass
- Ragweed
- Mold
- Dander
- Feathers
- Flea bites
What types of dogs are most susceptible to allergies?
This is by no means an exhaustive list, but a few breeds are more prone to allergies than others, including:
- Retrievers
- Setters
- German Shepherds
- Labradors
- Short-snouted dogs such as pugs and bulldogs
Signs of allergic reactions.
The symptoms vary with every cat and dog. However, the following symptoms for both include:
- Red or watery eyes
- Excessive itching
- Ear infections
- Incessant paw licking
- Head shaking
- Sneezing and reverse sneezing
- Hair loss, broken skin from itching, and inflamed skin
- Red and inflamed paws
Treating and preventing allergies.
There are a lot of potential pests that can cause allergies in your pet. Consulting with a veterinarian and considering the following tips can help ensure your pet’s comfort this spring.
- Feed foods or supplements rich in Omega 3’s.
- Wipe your dog’s paws after being outside on the grass to get rid of any potential allergens.
- Give a daily pet-safe antihistamine to ease his or her symptoms. Consult with your vet before administering anything to be safe.
- Bathe your dog in a moisture-rich shampoo or lotion to nourish the skin and prevent irritation, redness and itching. A shampoo massager brush is a perfect tool to use to ensure the product penetrates the skin.
Depending on where you live, allergens can be a nuisance year-round, but are especially potent during the spring. Use these strategies throughout the year to ensure your pet’s comfort and health while battling allergies.