Guide to Surviving the Allergy Season - Dog Edition

Spring is here and so are new plants, smells, dusts… and allergy season. Just like humans, our pups can also suffer from allergies that can make them uncomfortable and irritable. Common allergens for dogs during allergy season include pollen, dust mites, mold spores, and insect bites. Allergies in dogs occur when the body has an inappropriate immune response to a foreign substance or allergen, resulting in widespread inflammation which can be year-round or seasonal.

We’ve put together some helpful information and tips to help you & pup stay prepared and healthy through allergy season.

Allergy Symptoms

Seasonal allergies are usually environmental, and as the seasons change the allergens come and go in your dog’s environment. Seasonal allergies can show up between 1-3 years of age. The most common symptoms of allergies in dogs is skin-related but they can also suffer discomfort in their face and head. Watch out for these symptoms or any unusual or excessive behavior in your dog:

• Shedding excessively
• Sneezing excessively
• Licking their paws / anal glands
• Biting their coat or skin
• Hot spots
• Unusual texture in their skin
• Stinky ears, ear inflammation or chronic infections
• Puffy eyes and eye discharge

Common Allergens + Triggers

Your dog’s skin is sensitive and it’s the first line of defense against foreign substances. If your dog’s skin can’t properly block the allergens, it can trigger their immune system. You can’t prevent dogs from developing allergies but can keep them away from contact with common allergens such as fleas, pollen, and grass. These are some common allergy triggers for dogs to avoid:

• Tree pollens, such as cedar, ash, and oak
• Weed pollens, like ragweed in humans
• Grass pollens
• Mildew
• Dust mites
• Fleas and ticks
• Shed skin cells, like pet allergies in humans

How to prepare

Spring cleaning is a great way for managing allergies. By regularly cleaning and removing dust, pollen, and other allergens from your home, you can create a healthier environment for your dog. As much as we love our pets, having them in our homes exposes us and them to dirt, pests, and unwanted bacteria. For ways on how to keep your home and pet’s belongings clean, the Wildebeest guide to Spring Cleaning covers where to get started and how to execute.

Here are other proactive measures you can take to limit allergen exposure and manage your dog's allergies to ensure they remain comfortable and happy during allergy season:

• Use an air purifier to filter out airborne allergens
• Close your windows during peak pollen times to keep allergens out
• Clean pup’s paws after outdoor walks and bathe them regularly
• Wash your dog’s bedding weekly in hot water and dry on hot cycle to kill dust mites
• Vacuum soft surfaces, such as carpeting and couches, often
• Use a vacuum cleaner with a high-efficiency air (HEPA) filter
• Clean your dog’s chew toys and plush toys often
• Use dehumidifiers to prevent mold in bathrooms, kitchens, and other damp spots
• Have pup on flea and tick prevention methods
• Be mindful of other potential allergens in your home, such as certain houseplants or foods

Allergy Treatment

If your dog is suffering from seasonal allergies, consult with your vet first to explore the best allergy treatment plans to help alleviate your pup’s symptoms. Supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids and probiotics can help support your dog's immune system and reduce inflammation caused by allergies. Certain foods, like local honey can also aid and improve your dog's allergies, using the same pollen that causes seasonal allergies can make your dog more accustomed to the pollen.

You may look into allergy medications or vitamins to help with specific symptoms based on your vet’s recommendation. If your dog’s allergies are not getting better, schedule an appointment with your vet. They can prescribe and provide relief for more severe symptoms.

As responsible dog parents, being prepared and proactive during allergy season is important for our pup’s well-being. By implementing regular cleaning routines, avoiding allergens, exploring supplements and dietary options, and consulting with your veterinarian for appropriate medications, we can effectively manage our dog's allergies and ensure they stay comfortable and healthy.

Remember, a happy and allergy-free dog means a happy and stress-free dog parent. Stay informed, take action, and enjoy a wonderful allergy season with your Beestie!

Wildebeest creates everyday essentials that help you build that special bond, share adventures big & small and make amazing memories with your Beest. We'll be right there every step of the way, with our gear & Wild4Life Warranty in tow, supporting you & Beest all throughout the lifetime of your companionship!