Spring has officially arrived – but for many of us and our pets, this means one thing…Allergies.  Just like people, pets can suffer from seasonal allergies. Many pet allergies are caused by food, dander, and fleas.  Pets also experience allergic reactions to seasonal triggers from grass and tree pollen; reactions include sneezing, respiratory problems, red and watery eyes, excessive scratching, along with hair loss.  Even if your dog is not an outside pet they can still be affected by grass and tree pollen transferred from your shoes, clothes, and body.

Symptoms of Grass Allergies in Dogs

Here are a few symptoms to look for if you suspect your pet is suffering from grass allergies.

• Bald spots from scratching
• Diarrhea
• Excessive
• licking
• Hives
• Moist or crusty skin
• Red and watery eyes
• Runny
• nose
• Scratching (paws, muzzle, underarms, eyes, ears, anus, groin)
• Sneezing
• Snoring caused by an inflamed throat

Helping Your Pet Find Relief

Depending on the severity of your pet’s symptoms you may be able to help them find relief with these simple steps.

Keep pet area and bedding clean

Frequently washing your pet’s bedding during the high pollen months of spring will reduce the amount of pollen your pet is exposed to.

Frequent baths

Bathing your pet more often during the spring and summer months will also help reduce the amount of pollen on their fur and skin. If you don’t have the time, patience, or pet safe shampoos and equipment to bath them regularly…call Wags (205.902.WAGS (9247) and we’ll make sure they get a good, thorough grooming with pet safe products.

Grass-Free Play Space

Whether your pet is an outside dog or not, having a grass-free space to play and exercise will help them avoid additional allergy triggers. Wags ‘N Whiskers provides a large, indoor play area that is supervised by experienced Camp Counselors and is covered with a special pet-friendly surface that’s regularly cleaned with pet-safe products. Your dog will love the exercise, attention, and freedom from an outdoor grass play area. For more information about Camp Wags visit our website or call 205.902.WAGS (9247).

 Professional Help

If your pet’s allergy symptoms are severe or persist for several days, seek professional help from your veterinarian. They can perform a complete evaluation to determine the cause and treatment options, if necessary. They may suggest:

• Allergy Injections
• Change of food products
• Flea & tick control medication
• Supplements

No one likes to suffer from seasonal allergies, including pets. If your pet is sensitive to grass and/or tree pollen, these simple steps should provide some relief this spring.  For more information on helping your pet deal with seasonal allergies check out PetMD’s article at https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/skin/can-dogs-be-allergic-grass and call us to schedule your pet’s grooming and daycare needs in our grass-free, indoor play area.