Canines, like humans, are susceptible to airborne allergies. Allergens describe these substances. Additionally, dogs that are hypersensitive to certain airborne allergens may show symptoms of an allergic reaction.
In humans, seasonal allergies commonly manifest as a stuffy or runny nose, itchy throat, watery eyes, and other symptoms affecting the upper respiratory tract. Yet, skin irritation and itching are common symptoms among health problems in dogs suffering from seasonal allergies. Atopic dermatitis, sometimes known as atopy, is a skin disorder that manifests in dogs.
In What Seasons are Dogs Prone to Developing Seasonal Allergies?
Dogs go through seasonal allergies much like people do; the exact timing depends on the allergen. An allergy season might cause a flare-up in some dogs once or twice a year. Some dogs suffer from allergies all year round. In the same way that seasonal allergies can become a year-round problem for certain people, they can do the same for some pets.
The pollens of trees, grass, and weeds can trigger seasonal allergies. As a result, you might not see any signs in your dog until specific seasons roll around.
If your puppy’s symptoms worsen in the warmer months, it could be due to allergies to pollens from grass, trees, and weeds. It could help to wipe your puppy’s feet and coat when you get inside. This will remove any allergies and pollen that may have become embedded in their fur.
Molds, mildew, and house dust mites could be the culprits if your beloved pet experiences symptoms all year round.
Is There a Way to Alleviate a Dog’s Seasonal Allergies?
The lack of a long-term solution is due to the environmental nature of most seasonal allergies. Still, you can manage your symptoms with the help of accessible treatments. Seasonal allergies, specific allergens, your dog’s age, and his or her level of dedication to treatment all play a role in determining the most effective course of action.
Several of the following approaches are commonly used to treat seasonal allergies in dogs.
Ignore Things that Might Trigger Allergic Reactions.
When dealing with seasonal allergies, it’s better to stay away from triggers whenever you can. You should consider whether this is the best option for your dog. Some allergens, like pollen, can float through the air for long distances.
Instead of soft, washable toys, get your dog some tough, durable chews.
Plush toys that are loved should be washed in hot, soapy water once a week.
Reduce the humidity by turning your air conditioner on recirculation mode.
To keep wet areas, such as kitchens and bathrooms, mold-free, use dehumidifiers.
Treatment with Antihistamines
Allergy symptoms can be alleviated with the use of antihistamines. When it comes to seasonal dog allergies, some antihistamines that are commonly utilized include:
Trimeprazine (Temaril-P, Vanectyl-P)-Clemastine (Tavist)-Astemizole (Hismanal)
Although these drugs get a lot of use, they aren’t the best option when compared to other treatments for either the short or long term. However, when combined with other treatments, they may provide somewhat better results.
Steroids that Reduce Inflammation
The itching and allergic reaction can be effectively blocked with steroid drug treatment. In addition to the medications that your vet may prescribe, origin labs are a great place to look for answers to your pets’ health problems.
Here are a few adverse effects:
- Severe starvation
- An overwhelming desire to drink
- Deterioration of immunological function
- An infection, especially one of the respiratory or urinary tract varieties, might cause a spike in blood sugar levels.
Reducing or eliminating steroid medication usage is the target of alternative steroid treatments.
Some dogs may have a better reaction to steroids if they take omega-3 fatty acid supplements.
Omega-3 supplements have the potential to inhibit the production of inflammatory molecules by the skin in certain instances. The dosage of steroids required to alleviate symptoms can be reduced by taking omega-3 supplements.
Shampoo Therapy
To alleviate itchy skin, give your dog a wash with a hypoallergenic shampoo. You may remove allergies from your dog’s coat and skin by bathing them and washing them down regularly.
Before you go shopping for shampoo, see your veterinarian for advice. You can get some without a prescription from your vet, while others are accessible OTC. To find out how frequently you should bathe your dog, consult your vet. Breed and skin type may affect the suggestions.
Shots for Allergies
Environmentally allergic dogs may find relief with allergy shots, also known as allergen-specific immunotherapy (ASIT). Your dog’s immune system can be retrained with allergy injections.
If previous treatments have failed to help your dog, this one might be worth a try. Additionally, younger dogs usually respond better to it.