Now That Spring Has Sprung, Here’s How To Spot The Signs That Your Furry Friend Is Suffering From Seasonal Allergies
Spring brings warmth, longer days, and the joy of witnessing nature’s rebirth. However, it’s not all blossoms and sunny skies, especially for our four-legged companions.
As flowers bloom and grasses grow, many dogs start to show signs of allergies. And identifying these signs early can make a big difference in your pet’s comfort and health.
So, here’s everything you need to know about canine springtime allergies, from what causes them to the symptoms that dog owners should keep an eye on.
Common Causes Of Canine Allergies
Springtime allergies in dogs are primarily triggered by environmental allergens. Pollen from trees, grass, and weeds, as well as mold spores, can all contribute to allergic reactions.
But unlike humans, who experience respiratory symptoms, dogs tend to show skin-related issues. The reason? Dogs absorb allergens through their skin.
So, engaging with the great outdoors, where these allergens are rampant, can lead to discomfort and various symptoms.
Constant Scratching
If your dog starts to scratch more than usual, it might not just be an itch they’re trying to shake off.
annaav – stock.adobe.com – illustrative purposes only
Constant scratching is actually a tell-tale sign of allergic reactions, and it simply happens because allergens irritate their skin.
Thankfully, providing relief can be as simple as bathing your pup with a hypoallergenic shampoo or as specific as following a vet-prescribed treatment plan.
Your Dog’s Feet Smell Like Corn Chips
Have you ever noticed a corn chip smell coming from your dog’s feet? If so, that’s due to bacteria and yeast thriving in the warm, moist environment between their toes.
While not harmful in itself, excessive licking of the feet is a common response to the itchiness caused by allergies. So, cleaning your dog’s paws after walks and consulting your vet for appropriate treatments can help alleviate the discomfort.
Your Pup Has Chronic Ear Infections
Ear infections that just keep coming back may be rooted in allergies, too. After all, the ear canal can become inflamed and itchy, leading to infections.
That’s why regular cleaning and vet visits are crucial to managing this symptom. Sometimes, a change in diet or medication is necessary to keep those pesky ear infections at bay.
Recurring Hot Spots
Hot spots are red, moist, and irritated patches of skin that can appear suddenly and worsen quickly. They’re also a direct result of your dog scratching or biting at an itch.
Keeping the affected area clean and dry, along with a trip to the vet, is essential for treatment.
Chronic Diarrhea & Related Symptoms
Allergies can affect not just the skin but the digestive system as well. Chronic diarrhea, vomiting, or a gurgly stomach are all signs that your dog might be allergic to something they’ve ingested.
It could be a specific protein in their food or another ingested allergen. Either way, consulting with your vet for dietary adjustments or treatments is advisable.
Coughing
A less common but noticeable allergy symptom is a dry, hacking cough, which can be mistaken for kennel cough.
This can result from the inhalation of allergens and is more often seen in dogs allergic to dust or mold.
Still, you should always consult your vet if your dog starts coughing to rule out other causes and to discuss possible treatments.
Red Eyes
Last but not least, just like humans, dogs can get red, watery eyes from allergies. This symptom is caused by airborne allergens irritating the eyes.
So, gently cleaning the area and possibly using eye drops prescribed by your vet can help provide relief for your pup.
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