By skyforbes 
Dogs can react negatively to several things in the environment. Such reactions are known as allergic reactions when it becomes a proven and frequent response whenever exposed to the trigger. Some environmental allergies in dogs are seasonal, which means they only show up during specific times of the year.
The triggers that cause allergic reactions are known as allergens. Therefore, seasonal allergies in dogs typically manifest during those times of the season when the allergens are present in the environment. Dogs react differently when affected by these allergens. While one individual might react a certain way, another dog could be unaffected. Some dogs have natural immunity against a specific allergy.
Dog seasonal allergies symptoms can vary. In this post, we have discussed all you need to know about seasonal allergies in dogs, their symptoms and treatments.
Learn more about them below!
Types of Seasonal Allergies in Dogs
As already mentioned, there are different types of seasonal allergies in dogs. Here is a list of usual seasonal allergies that a dog can have:
- Flea Dermatitis
- Dust/Storage Mites
- Flower Pollen
- Molds and other similar fungi
- Tree Pollen
- Weed Pollen
Most dogs will have allergic from these causes within the months of March and May or September and November. At these points in the year, there are a lot of seasonal allergens in the environment.
Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies in Dogs
Dog seasonal allergies symptoms can come in different forms but often, they’re typical. These symptoms can always be found manifesting in dogs generally.
- Reddened, inflamed or infected skin
- Excessive itch which causes scratching of affected area
- Non-stop licking of paws and anal glands
- Chronic infection of the ears
- Excessive coat or fur shedding
- Loss of hair & fur
- Breathing issues which can affect quality of life
- Thickening of the affected area of skin
- Chewing or gnawing of affected skin
- Pawing the face frequently
- Running, water eyes with discharge
How to Diagnose Seasonal Allergies in Dogs
Diagnosing the causes of seasonal allergies in dogs’ is important so as to treat it properly. Diagnosis involves finding out the specific causes of the seasonal allergy. Once the exact causes are diagnosed, treating the condition becomes easy and straight-forward.
Diagnosis will come in the form of the veterinarian studying your dog’s medical history, symptoms and running some confirmatory, specific tests. It’s important to check for dog flea dermatitis too, as it is known to cause symptoms that look like typical seasonal allergies. A physical examination of the affected parts can also do the trick. Seeing a reddened skin condition, itchiness, hair loss are signs to investigate further.
How to Treat Symptoms of Seasonal Allergies
Most times, seasonal allergies in dogs are chronic and will always happen to the animal during that time of the year unless treated. An absolute cure for the condition is often out of it. Symptoms are managed and treated whenever the season comes up.
In our experience, dog seasonal allergies treatment can involve one or a combination of the following treatments.
-
Anti-itch medications
This type of medication reduces itchiness that might occur when the allergic reaction occurs. When there is no itch, the dog can be free from skin infections that arise from scratching. Over-the-counter medication like Prednisone and other similar medication can help with stopping itches.
-
Preventive Itch Medication
This solution is preventive in nature and is administered to the dog ahead of time to prevent any discomforting itchiness. Timing is crucial for it to be effective. Ensure the dog receives this medication at least one month ahead of the season, continuing with a dosage during the season and another dosage after the season ends.
-
All Year Preventive Medication
Like the name states, this treatment is more of preventive. It will stop seasonal allergies in dogs originating from tick or flea attacks all year long. Consult a pet care center in your area for a effective all-year preventative allergy medication.
-
Oral Medications
Anti-biotic and Anti-fungal oral medications are effective in dealing with secondary infections that arise from scratching. If skin infections are present, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal treatments containing potent compounds can be used to treat them.
-
Allergy Pill
An allergy pill containing anti-histamine properties can be given to your pet to relieve dog seasonal allergy symptoms. Ensure that that the right dosage is administered to avoid complications. It is recommended to only seek professional counsel from a pet care specialist. Medicines like Benedryl are known to be effective in this regard.
-
Topical Sprays and Creams
If you need quick relief solution for your pet, consider topical sprays and creams that can be applied immediately. Use branded products that have been tested, vetted and approved by other pet owners and regulatory authorities. Topical sprays can provide an instant though temporary relief while you access more lasting solutions.
-
Baths Therapy
A good dunking in a bath with anti-allergy compounds can do your pup a world of good. If your dog loves baths, it’s a win-win situation. Baths will remove the allergens, soothe the allergic reactions and ease the skin. Products containing oatmeal will moisturize the skin, reduce the itch and relieve the dog of any inflammations.
-
Immunotherapy
This treatment usually involves allergy shots or oral medication formed from the result of the pet’s allergy test. This allergy test determines the cause of environmental allergies in dogs; a sample of the dog’s blood is used for this exercise by a veterinary specialist. Please only undergo this procedure in an approved and qualified animal hospital like Safari Veterinary Care Centers.
Ideal Way to Avoid Allergens
Overall, the most effective way to deal with seasonal allergies in dogs is by avoiding the allergies in the first place. Though it’s not always effective, but mitigating exposure to environmental elements during certain seasons can help your dog. Some methods that work include:
- Regular vacuuming of floors, carpets, sofas, couches, rugs, etc
- Cleaning and washing your dog’s bedding/environment
- Using an air conditioner indoors
- Keep your pets inside during off-season
- Use an allergy collar if going outdoors is unavoidable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can allergies be cured?
Most allergies can be managed and treated with the right methods. Curing allergies completely is usually more difficult because any exposure to the allergen can trigger the allergic reactions all over again.
Can dogs have different allergies?
Yes, dogs can react differently to different allergies. What affects one dog might not affect another. Find out what your dog’s allergies are and treat them on time. There are preventative allergy treatments and therapeutic treatments.
Can dogs get an allergy while indoors?
Yes, dogs can get an allergy even while inside. Allergens are not always found outside the house. What triggers an allergic reaction in a dog could be found inside as much as it can be outside. Proper hygiene and diet can do a good deal of managing allergies both from outdoors and indoors.
How effective are allergy treatments?
Allergy treatments have different degree of efficacy. Several factors can also affect how effective a treatment will be on your dog. Check for the right treatment, the effective dosage, and recommended methods before choosing one.
Is it preferable to let a professional veterinarian handle allergy treatment, or can I do it myself?
For immediate relief, DIY allergy treatments are great for your pet. However, it’s better to visit a veterinary clinic for more professional treatment that can last longer.