Allergies

The days of sunshine, warm weather, and flowering trees are a relief to us winter-weary New Englanders, but it comes with a price: allergies.

Common allergies to tree pollen cause those nasty familiar symptoms – runny nose, itchy throat, watery eyes. But as much as allergies can affect humans, what about our dogs?

DOGS GET ALLERGIES TOO

Sadly, our dogs are not immune to allergic reactions to their environments. Typically, common seasonal allergies like grass and pollen also affect animals. Although the symptoms might look different for dogs, they can still be a nuisance and affect overall quality of life, according to the American Kennel Club.

Some of the common seasonal allergies that dogs can react to are ones which affect humans too:

• Tree pollen
• Grass
• Mold
• Insect bites

ALLERGY SYMPTOMS FOR DOGS

Unlike humans, whose physical reactions to allergens include itchy throat, sneezing, or coughing, dogs react differently. When your dog’s immune system kicks up and produces histamines to counter the allergen, they can exhibit some of the following symptoms:

• Biting
• Scratching
• Excess Licking
• Shaking their head and/or ears

TREATMENTS FOR YOUR DOG

Much like you, there are several options you can choose to treat your dog. Your veterinarian will be able to go over the right choice for your dog.

ANTIHISTAMINES

Believe it or not, your dog can be prescribed an antihistamine like Benadryl. While not all dogs respond favorably to this medication and there are some notable side effects, it is often the first method used to alleviate your dog’s allergy symptoms.

MEDICATED SHAMPOO

If your dog is miserably scratching all day, a medicated shampoo can help calm the irritation and inflammation. Medicated shampoos specifically help by alleviating the itching that can accompany environmental allergies, helping them be more comfortable throughout the spring and summertime.

STEROIDS AND PRESCRIPTION MEDICATION

Steroid injections like Prednisone are available for your dog if other methods do not help their condition. Although steroids are not a long-term solution, they can be helpful if your dog is desperate for relief but has not had success with other treatments. Alternative options like prescription creams and even allergy shots are available as well. 

NATURAL REMEDIESPrefer natural remedies to treat or relieve your dog’s allergies? Interestingly, you can give your pup colostrum, which contains an ingredient called proline-rich polypeptide (PRP). PRP helps alleviate and can even eliminate allergy symptoms in dogs. To alleviate any itchiness or redness, try making a paste of 1 tablespoon baking soda with some water and apply it onto any affected areas.

WORK WITH YOUR VET

Unfortunately, for both humans and animals, there is currently no cure for seasonal allergies. However, by working with your veterinarian and monitoring your pup for any sudden changes or increase in symptoms, you can help make the transition into the warmer months more bearable and comfortable.