Is Your Dog Allergic to Spring?

   Spring is a wonderful time of the year, especially when you are a dog. The grass is green, squirrels are out, there are fresh flower beds to dig, and balls to catch. If your dog suffers from seasonal allergies, spring might not be their favorite time of the year.

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 It is the environmental allergens that are inhaled or get on the skin that results in the most common form of allergy; atopy. Autumn brings ragweed, the winter usually sees an increase in dust mites but it is spring that brings out the biggest allergic reactions. Your dog can have a pollen, new grasses, molds, trees, and flowers smorgasbord each time it goes outside. How will you know if your dog is suffering?

Signs of Allergies in Dogs

·        Chewing at paws

·        Licking rear and groin area

·        Rubbing their face

·        Inflamed ears/infections

·        Hot spots

   There are a number of ways to treat atopy allergies. You can begin with a few simple changes at home.

Simple Solutions

·        Frequent baths with a quality shampoo

·        Wipe their paws after they go outdoors. This will lessen the number of allergens they bring in on them.

·        Keep their bed areas clean.

·        Daily brushing

·        Buy disposable booties for your dog (Pawz® rubber boots, etc.)

Natural Solutions

·        Add an Omega 3 fatty acid (Salmon Oil) and coconut to their diet

·        Give fruits and vegetables with Quercetin such as apples, bananas, and broccoli.

¨     Quercetin is a plant-based flavonoid compound that has powerful antioxidant properties. It is both an anti-inflammatory and anti-histamine. Dubbed, “Nature’s Benadryl” it can be purchased in chewable, capsules, and tablets from Chewy.com and other outlets.

·        After bathing, pour a mixture of:

½ cup Apple Cider Vinegar

½ cup Green Tea (cooled)

1 cup distilled water

~Mix in an aroma-safe jar with lid. Shake well before using. Pour over your dog, making sure to avoid their eyes and ears. Rinse thoroughly and pat the dog dry. Blow drying can dry out their skin and make them itch.

   Medical Treatments

·        Steroid shot

·        Antihistamine

·        Apoquel

   It won’t be long before spring and all of its glory will turn to summer and hopefully, the allergies will stop for a few months. Always consult your veterinarian for advice on treating your dog for allergies. Never give your prescription medicine to your dog or cat. Some over-the-counter medications such as Benadryl® can be given to dogs. Be sure to ask your vet for the correct dosage to suit your pooch’s age and weight.

   Do your dogs or cats suffer from atopy allergies? What treatment has worked for you?

*Sources for this post:

Dogs Naturally Magazine ~ Aromatherapy Allergy Relief for Itchy Dogs

Written by: Kelly Holland Azzaro RA,CCAP, CBFP, LMT  

Can I give Benadryl to my dog? ~ Written by Dr. Jessica Vogelsang DVM

Dogs Naturally Magazine ~ Nature’s Benadryl Quercetin ~ Written by: Sarah Linn and information sourced by Rodney Habib

Learn more about Apoquel a new medication to control itching in dogs  ~ Written by Dr. Rachele Baker, DVM