Helping Dogs Through Spring and Summer Allergies by Dr Elaine Cebuliak

As the warmer months of spring and summer approach, many of us enjoy longer walks with our furry friends and more time outdoors. However, this season can be a nightmare for dogs who suffer from seasonal allergies. Pollen from grasses, trees, and plants can trigger reactions ranging from itching and sneezing to more severe discomforts like skin rashes and inflammation. Here are some effective ways to help alleviate your dog’s allergy symptoms and keep them comfortable during this challenging time.

1. Regularly Washing Off Pollens

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to help your dog through allergy season is to wash off pollen after walks. Pollen tends to accumulate on your dog’s fur, especially if they’ve been running through long grasses. Regular bathing or at least rinsing your dog with water can remove these allergens before they trigger symptoms.

After every walk or outdoor play session, give your dog a quick rinse, paying special attention to their paws, belly, and face, which are common areas for pollen to settle. Using a hypoallergenic dog shampoo once or twice a week can also help soothe their skin and prevent itching.

2. Keep the Lawn Trimmed

Long grasses, especially those that have gone to seed, can become a hotspot for pollen. Keeping your lawn trimmed and tidy can greatly reduce the pollen count in your backyard, making it a safer environment for your dog to play in.

Mow your lawn at least twice a week during the spring and summer months to prevent grasses from flowering and seeding. Regularly cutting the grass not only minimizes the amount of pollen but also helps prevent ticks and fleas, which are more common during the warmer months.

3. Feeding Local Honey

An old trick for building immunity to seasonal allergies in dogs is feeding them small amounts of locally grown honey. The idea behind this is similar to how allergy shots work for humans—by consuming trace amounts of local pollen found in honey, your dog can slowly become desensitized to the allergens. This process, known as hyposensitization, can reduce the severity of allergic reactions over time.

Start by giving your dog a few drops of local honey two to three times daily. Over time, you can increase the amount to about half a teaspoon for small dogs and up to a full teaspoon for larger breeds. Be sure to use honey from local sources, as this contains the pollens that are specific to your environment.

4. Watch for Signs of Allergies

It’s important to be vigilant during allergy season and watch for any signs that your dog may be struggling. Common symptoms include:

• Excessive scratching or biting at their skin
• Red, inflamed skin
• Runny eyes or nose
• Sneezing or coughing
• Licking paws frequently

If your dog shows these symptoms, it’s a good idea to consult with your veterinarian. In some cases, more advanced treatments, like antihistamines or allergy shots, may be needed to help manage their condition.

5. Additional Tips for Managing Allergies

• Wipe down indoor surfaces regularly to reduce the pollen that may have come inside on your dog or through open windows.
• Provide a healthy diet, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation and support skin health.
• Use a pet-safe air purifier inside your home to filter out airborne allergens and improve your dog’s breathing environment.

ANIMAL WELLNESS ph 61 7 31221997

Veterinary Integrative Care Clinic AND Advanced Veterinary Dentistry

1016 Stanley Street, Cnr Edgar St

East Brisbane 4169

www.animalwellness.com.au
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/animalwellness

http://naturopathvet.com/

Dr Elaine Cebuliak BVSc MACVSc dentistry, Dip Ed, Dip Rem Massage, Cert Chinese Herbs, Cert IVAS Qual Acupuncture, CMAVA, Adv Dip Naturopathy, Adv Dip Herbal Med, Adv Dip Nutrition       ph 61-422413404  
http://www.pethealth.com.au/Page/animal-massage-brisbane