Helping Your Dog Through Seasonal Allergies

As the seasons change, environmental allergens like pollen, mold, and dust mites become more prevalent, causing discomfort for many dogs. If your dog seems to scratch more during certain times of the year or shows signs of irritation, they could be dealing with seasonal allergies.

Common Causes of Seasonal Allergies in Dogs

• Pollen: Tree, grass, and weed pollen are significant culprits, especially during spring and fall.
• Mold: Mold spores thrive in damp conditions, which become more prevalent during rainy or humid seasons.
• Dust Mites: While present year-round, dust mites can worsen as homes become sealed up in colder months.
• Flea Bites: Flea allergies tend to flare up during warmer months when fleas are more active.

Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies in Dogs

Seasonal allergies can affect dogs in different ways. While some may show subtle signs, others can experience more intense symptoms. Keep an eye out for:

• Itchy Skin: This is the most common symptom, especially around the paws, face, belly, and armpits.
• Excessive Licking: Constant licking of paws or other parts of the body is a common response to itchiness.
• Red or Inflamed Skin: Areas of irritation may appear red or swollen, and in severe cases, develop into sores.
• Ear Infections: Allergies can lead to secondary infections in the ears, causing redness, discharge, or a bad odor.
• Watery Eyes or Sneezing: Respiratory symptoms can occur, similar to hay fever in humans.

Managing Your Dog’s Seasonal Allergies

Tackling seasonal allergies in dogs requires a multifaceted approach. Here are some tips for helping your dog feel better:

1. Consult Your Vet: A vet can help diagnose allergies and rule out other conditions. They can also prescribe medications for more severe cases.
2. Regular Bathing and Grooming: Baths with a gentle shampoo can help remove allergens from your dog’s coat and help soothe irritated skin.
3. Allergen Control: Regularly clean your home to reduce pollen, mold, and dust mites and wash your dog’s bedding frequently.
4. Flea Prevention: Use year-round flea prevention to reduce flea-related allergies, especially during peak flea seasons.
5. Omega Fatty Acid Supplements: Omega-3 fatty acids can help improve skin health and reduce inflammation associated with allergies. Fish oil and salmon oil are great sources of omega fatty acids.
6. Immune System Support: Building your dog’s immune system against allergies is key. 70% of your dog’s immune system is based in their gut, and Dinovite for Dogs helps restore balance to promote a strong immune system.

Seasonal allergies can be uncomfortable for your dog, but with the right care, they can be managed effectively. Being attentive to changes in your dog’s behavior and symptoms during peak allergy season can help you address the problem early and keep your dog feeling their best.

*All information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the expert advice of a veterinarian.