Does Your Dog Suffer From Seasonal Allergies: How To Keep Them Allergy Free

Pollen, pollen, pollen, sneezing, sneezing, watery eyes, itchy throat. You know it is springtime, because your allergies are going crazy. Have you ever wondered if your pooch is feeling the same way, too? If he is constantly scratching and biting, then the answer is probably yes. Like humans, dogs can be allergic to a number of things. The difference being in the way they show it. You have watery eyes and cannot quit sneezing. Your pup, on the other hand, cannot quit scratching.

Since your dog cannot tell you what is causing his itch, then you have to work a little bit harder to figure it out. If your dog seems to scratch more in the spring, then he is probably experiencing seasonal allergies. If you are not completely sure, then watch the daily weather report. Keep track of the pollen count, and see if your dog scratches more when the count is high. If you suspect your pooch may have allergies, then take him to the veterinarian.

The veterinarian can perform a scratch test to find out what your dog may be allergic to. Extracts of pollen and other common allergens are injected just beneath the surface of his skin. If the area become irritated, then that means he is allergic to the extract. Your veterinarian can then provide you with options to treat his allergies. Scratch tests are reliable, but can be fairly expensive.

If your dog is allergic to pollen, then allergy shots are an effective solution. Your dog is regularly given shots over a period of time. Depending on the severity, you could be making weekly visits to the vet. Shots are a long-term solution, because they work on building your dog’s immunity to the allergen. Unfortunately, they often take between six and twelve months to work, and, like the scratch test, can be fairly expensive.

Steroids are another treatment method. Steroids do not build your dog’s immunity. Instead, they suppress it in an attempt to lessen the severity of the allergic reaction. Although they can help your dog cope with his allergies, steroids are not an ideal treatment. They can seriously damage the organs in your dog’s body and cause long-term health problems.

For immediate relief, you can treat your dog’s symptoms. Your vet can help you find a shampoo or spray that can provide itch relief. However, this is only a temporary treatment, and you should continue working to identify the causes of the allergic reaction. In many cases, dogs can benefit from antihistamines. With the guidance of your veterinarian, you can administer the antihistamine (usually in liquid form) yourself. They are safe to use and treat the itching and swelling associated with allergies. The downside? Just like humans, dogs can experience drowsiness from the medication.

If your dog is scratching all the time, then it may not be a seasonal allergy. Your pooch could be allergic to fleas, ticks, mosquitoes and other insects, other dogs or cats in the house, certain materials, or his pet food. It’s important that you take him to the vet if you think he may be suffering. Your vet can help you identify the allergens and come up with a solution. If not treated, dogs will scratch and bite until they make sores on their skin. The sores can become infected and cause other health problems.

It’s springtime! The flowers are in bloom and so are your allergies. But wait, your pooch is scratching, too? As a matter of fact, dogs are just as likely to be allergic to the same things you are. If you suspect your pet may be having an allergic reaction, then take him to your veterinarian as soon as possible. The vet can help you figure out what’s going on and offer ways to treat the problem. Sometimes, allergy shots are required to provide relief for your pet. Other ways to treat your pet include steroids, antihistamines, or topical products such as medicated shampoo. Figuring out what is causing your pet to itch is important for his health. Once the allergen is identified and you have started a relief program, then your dog will be on his way to being itch free in no time!