Human allergies are often characterized by eye irritation, sneezing, and nasal congestion. Dogs are more likely to suffer from skin irritation or atopic dermatitis. Your dog might be excessively itchy, scratching, or rubbing on furniture. They may develop an itchy rash on the belly and the insides of their legs. Some dogs may have a rash on their lower back just above their tails, too. These kinds of allergies can trigger severe discomfort, and excessive scratching, biting, and rubbing can damage skin and increase the risk of infection.
Managing Dog Allergies
While you might not be able to stop ragweed from releasing pollen, you can take steps to reduce your dog’s suffering before the allergies start. To do that, you need to manage your dog’s environment both inside and out.
Monitor allergy forecasts regularly and avoid playing outdoors when allergen counts are high. When you come inside, wash your hands thoroughly to reduce any residual pollen, and wash your pup’s paws when they come back in, too. Because allergens can accumulate in leaf piles and other debris, keep your dog’s outdoor play area clean and free of leaves as much as possible.
Some dogs may benefit from Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acid supplements and natural calming supplements to soothe their anxiety over the itching. Medications may also be necessary for some pups that are suffering from dog allergies in fall. Antihistamines may be used to calm the allergic reaction and control symptoms. Your vet may recommend using an antihistamine for a period to evaluate the effectiveness and minimize the risk of side effects.
For dogs that get little or no relief from antihistamines or that have particularly severe reactions, steroids may be needed. Steroids calm the inflammation underlying the allergy, but they can carry a higher risk of side effects, which is why your vet may recommend trying antihistamines first. If steroids are necessary, use them only as directed and talk to your vet about whether your dog might need more frequent checkups during the course of treatment.
Finally, your vet may also suggest using an antifungal or antimicrobial medicated shampoo to calm inflammation, soothe irritated skin, and remove allergens embedded in the fur. When using frequent bathing for preventing dog allergies, you might need to add a moisturizing rinse to further soothe and moisturize your pup's skin.
Remember to talk to your vet before offering any medications or supplements, including over-the-counter medications, to ensure they will not have any adverse effects on your pooch.
At Playful Pack, we take special care to make sure your furry friend is always comfortable, even when they are suffering from dog allergies. Whether your dog is boarding or spending the day with us, we are always happy to administer medications at no extra cost. Our spaces are clean and well-kept, and we clean frequently using only pet-safe disinfectant products. We also use top-quality air filtration, which can help reduce allergens in the air. Our doggy daycare acts as a comfortable home-away-from-home when you cannot be there, and we will take all possible precautions to keep your pup safe, healthy, and comfortable. Call us today to schedule a free temperament evaluation, and your dog can enjoy a full day of daycare on us!