Pet Information > Others > Pet Articles > Are seasonal allergies a problem for your dog?

Are seasonal allergies a problem for your dog?

2016/5/3 14:30:51
As an allergy sufferer, you know just how difficult the spring and summer can be with the sneezing and runny noses that come with the season. What many pet parents don't realize is that their canines can actually be affected by these allergies and it can be a difficult problem to treat from a dog wellness perspective. You obviously want your pooch to enjoy the warm weather and spend time in the great outdoors, but not if it will result in itchy skin, excessive scratching or regularly biting at his paws. To effectively treat these issues and ensure that your pooch is symptom-free this season, DogChannel.com recommends examinining the following potential causes.

1. Pollen allergies. This type of allergy can be especially difficult for pet parents to treat, and it can sometimes result in hair loss and itchy skin, mainly around the neck, head, ears or around his front paws. While minimizing his exposure and maintaining a few hypoallergenic practices around the home could help quell his symptoms, the news source recommends taking a trip to the vet to explore other options.

2. Flea allergies. While a bunch of fleas crawling on your pooch's back is certainly cause for concern, he can have allergic reactions from these insects without experiencing a full-blown infestation. Flea bites will transfer a small amount of saliva into your canine's skin, which can cause rashes and itchy skin. Practicing year-round flea prevention with a wide array of Hartz products is the best solution to keep your companion safe from parasites.

3. Food allergies. If insects and environmental factors are ruled out, it may be wise to look at your furry friend's diet. Dogs are far more sensitive to the ingredients in their food than people give them credit for, and certain carbohydrates, preservatives and other additives could cause a variety of skin issues, reports Modern Dog Magazine. Investing in grain-free foods, exploring homemade diets and gradually excluding certain ingredients from your dog's diet could be beneficial to get to the heart of his dietary problems. Working with your veterinarian is your best bet, and you can try a wide range of hypoallergenic feeding plans that can clear up your dog's allergic reactions.

Allergies can be a major pet care challenge for dog owners, but with regular veterinary visits and a few changes in his regimen, these issues can be managed.