Seasonal Pet Allergies: Helping Your Pet

We when consider seasonal allergies, most of us know the signs: watery eyes, runny nose, and sneezing and wheezing. But, when it comes to our pets, the most common signs of seasonal allergies are not always respiratory, but dermatological. Seasonal pet allergies often manifest as scratching, chewing on skin and paws, inflammation, and hot spots.

When pet allergies are not diagnosed and treated, pets may suffer needlessly. In addition, more severe reactions to seasonal allergies can lead to hair loss, skin infections, open sores, and may even compromise health as your pet’s immune system continues to be hyper-stimulated.

What are Seasonal Pet Allergies?

Pet seasonal allergies, or atopy, include all of the usual airborne allergens many of us are allergic to:

• Grass
• Trees
• Weed pollens
• Molds and mildew
• Dust and mites

Typically, many of these allergens are most active in the environment from the onset of spring until the drier, hotter months arrive (although, depending on how many allergens your pet is allergic to, atopy could be present year-round). Atopy also tends to present itself in pets over the age of one, and approximately 10% of dogs have some form of seasonal allergies.

Flea Allergies

It’s important to note that the most common allergy in pets results from flea bites. Since fleas seem to be more active in the spring and early summer months, it is important to first rule out fleas as the source of your pet’s symptoms. We also recommend keeping your pet on a parasite preventive to keep your pet at optimal health.

What are the Symptoms?

If your pet is predisposed to seasonal allergies, you probably have noticed the signs of an allergic reaction in him or her coinciding with the warming temperatures and blooming trees and plants.

For those pet parents who have some suspicions that their pets have been contending with seasonal allergies, the follow symptoms are among the most common:

• Biting at paws and skin
• Red, scabbed, or oozing skin
• Increased scratching
• Itchy ears and base of tail
• Constant licking
• Swollen paws
• Watery eyes
• Sneezing
• Vomiting and/or diarrhea
• Snoring

If you notice these symptoms developing in your pet, we can help diagnose and treat seasonal allergies before they become more severe and tax your pet’s immune system. We can also consult with you how to reduce allergens in the home and your pet’s exposure, as well as suggest ways to help your pet cope with symptoms and enhance immunity.

Pet seasonal allergies can leave our pets feeling miserable, but there are some effective options for treatment and prevention to keep your pet feeling his or her best. Give us a call!