You may be no stranger to seasonal allergies. But, can Fido have allergies too?

Can My Dog Have Seasonal Allergies?

Yes! Just like you, your pal can be sensitive to pollen, ragweed, mold, and other seasonal allergens.

Symptoms

Your companion’s allergy symptoms may be similar to your own. Some symptoms to look out for include:

• Scratching and biting their skin
• red or inflamed skin
• excessive shedding
• compulsive paw licking
• butt scooting
• licking anal glands
• waxy ears or ear infections
• coughing, wheezing, or difficulty breathing

Management

While there is no cure for allergies, there are ways to help manage symptoms.

Pills

Before giving your pal any over-the-counter medication, talk with your vet first. Dosage will depend on your pal’s needs. But, you can give your pal allergy pills or fish oil supplements. Allergy medications that are safe for your pal include diphendyrmine, loraditine, cetirizine, and chlorpheniramine. Additionally, fish oil will help reduce inflammation and irritation of itchy skin.

Topical Treatments

Topical treatment includes flea and tick prevention, and anti-itch sprays or creams. Topical treatment will provide relief for your furry friend, though it is temporary. However, remember to only use products made for pets!

Baths

Baths will help to remove allergens from your four-legged friend’s skin and fur. Additionally, look for shampoos with soothing ingredients such as oatmeal. But, if your companion doesn’t like baths, you can give your pal a quick wipe down after being outside. Wiping their paws and coat with grooming wipes will help to remove pollen and allergens too.

Avoid Allergens

It is hard to completely avoid exposure to allergens. However, you can limit the time that your companion spends outdoors. Additionally, be aware of high-pollen days to help reduce exposure and manage symptoms.

We don’t like to see our companions not feeling well. So, follow the guide above to identify symptoms and manage them. But, if the tips above don’t seem to provide the relief you are looking for, talk with your vet!