How to Manage Seasonal Allergies in Dogs Spring is just around the corner and it is that time of the year when everyone loves spending time outdoors. However, the change in the season is also fraught with certain concerns because seasonal allergies are one headache that everyone has to deal with one way or other. Most of the time pet parents are surprised to learn that their four-legged canine friend can also get seasonal allergies. This is quite common for people who are new to pet parenting. Like humans, dogs are also prone to seasonal allergies. Most seasonal allergies that affect dogs are not lethal in nature and require proper medication and care. However, these can be pretty uncomfortable and also make your dog restless. People new to pet parenting don’t know the ways to handle seasonal allergies in their pet dogs. Here in this article, we will discuss the ways you can handle seasonal allergies in your pet dog.
Symptoms of seasonal allergies Whenever your pet dog is suffering from seasonal allergies, then you will observe certain signs that act as an indicator of the problems your dog is facing. The reactions of dogs to seasonal allergies are different from that of humans. Most of the time you might get to see itchy skin and ear infections in your pet dog. However, along with these two symptoms your dog might also suffer from swollen eyes, runny nose, and sneezing which are all indications of allergies. You might notice that your dog is frantically itching certain areas in his body like the armpit, muzzle, or paw region. If you observe that your dog is scratching or chewing heavily on these areas, then it is time to consult a veterinarian.
Reasons behind seasonal allergies You might come across your neighbor’s dog that is perfectly fine while your own pet might be suffering from seasonal allergies. There is nothing to get surprised about because seasonal allergies are caused when your dog inhales or comes in contact with something they are sensitive to. Moreover, the immune system of your dog becomes less tolerant against a certain form of allergens and whenever your dog encounters that particular allergen, the immune system is not able to defend properly and this results in inflammatory reactions in your pet dog. Things like trees, grass pollen, dust & dust mites, mold and mold mites are some of the prominent factors that cause seasonal allergies in your dog.
Diagnosing seasonal allergies Diagnosing seasonal allergies cannot be done by pet parents as certain symptoms of allergies are also common in other forms of illness in dogs. This is why getting in touch with your vet is necessary. Based on your pet’s history, physical examination, and laboratory test your vet will be able to determine whether your dog is suffering from seasonal allergies or not. Some pet parents also take their dog to a dermatologist for diagnosis and treatment of their pet dog. A dermatologist conducts skin testing of your dog to determine the exact cause behind the allergies. Using the test results the dermatologists will prescribe the medications that will ease your dog’s discomfort.
Medication for seasonal allergies
Taking medication for seasonal allergies is common. The result of the various tests determines the extent to which your pet is suffering from allergies. The dermatologists based on the results of the test prescribe a serum for your dog which is administered to your dog through an injection. In addition to this, allergen injections don’t have any profound side effects and are pretty safe to administer. However, if your dog is suffering from moderate allergies. Then over-the-counter medications will be enough to treat the allergies.
Nutrition during allergies Proper nutrition plays a critical role in managing seasonal allergies in your dog. There are many therapeutic dog foods that are prepared keeping in mind the allergic conditions of dogs. Many times pet parents are able to successfully manage their pet’s skin allergies through these dog foods. However, it is advised not to give any therapeutic food to your dog without consulting your veterinarian. There are also instances of food allergies in dogs and it is not worth taking a risk.
Finally The above-discussed factors are some of the important things related to seasonal allergies in dogs. Most of the time pet parents are not able to discern whether their pet is suffering from allergies or any other medical condition. This is why you must immediately take your dog to a veterinarian without any delay.