Did you know dogs in Matthews can have seasonal allergies just like humans can? Seasonal allergies are much more common in dogs than you might realize, and there’s a chance your dog even suffers from them, too. But how can you figure out which seasonal allergies might be the ones affecting your dog?
In the article below, we’ll tell you about six of the most common types of seasonal allergies in dogs. Although these aren’t the only kinds of allergies your dog might have, they are more likely to affect her than some others. Use this list to figure out what to ask your veterinarian in Matthews, NC during your dog’s next visit.
Signs of seasonal allergies in dogs can be itching, sneezing, licking feet or belly, and chewing around the tail or other body parts.
Seasonal Allergies That Can Affect Your Dog in Matthews, NC
Below are 6 common types of seasonal allergies in dogs:
Pollen
Pollen occurs more often during the spring and summer than it does during the other parts of the year, and when it surges, so do allergies. Humans and dogs alike are more prone to suffering from seasonal allergies during the parts of the year when pollen counts are high.
Pollen is the most common cause of seasonal allergies in dogs. However, many dogs may have a pollen allergy along with other types of allergies, and it can be tough to pinpoint whether or not pollen is the true cause of the allergic response.
Fungal Spores
Some types of fungi that sprout outdoors during the rainy times of the year release spores that cause an allergic reaction in certain dogs. Although fungal spores are not as common of an allergen as pollen, they are still a potential risk for dogs in Matthews who have seasonal allergies.
If you notice your dog’s allergies getting worse during times shortly after a rain, especially if she spends time outside in dark or out of the way places, then she may have an allergy to fungal spores. This type of allergy can sometimes also occur indoors, but it’s much rarer.
Mold and Mildew
Mold and mildew are similar to fungal spore allergies, but they aren’t quite the same. Dogs who have seasonal allergies to mold or mildew are likely to get sick after a heavy rain when everything is musty indoors and outside both. They show signs of an allergic response if they are in a location with a known mold or mildew problem, too.
If your dog seems to get more allergic after being in the basement or garage, then mold or mildew could be the reasons. And of course, if you know that you have these problems in your home, it’s better for everyone’s health to try to take care of them as soon as you can.
Grass
It’s much less common for dogs to be allergic to grass than to other allergens listed here, but that doesn’t mean it never happens. Some dogs may be allergic to only specific types of grass or weeds, while others are allergic to most types.
You can usually tell your dog is allergic to grass if she becomes very itchy after spending time walking through the grass outside. However, she could also be having a reaction to any treatments on your lawn, so take care not to spray your lawn with treatments if your dog will be using it anytime in the near future.
Specific Plants
Specific plants in and around your yard can contribute to seasonal allergies in dogs in Matthews. Your dog could be allergic to the pollen produced by these plants, but she could also be allergic to the plants themselves.
If your dog brushes up against a plant she is allergic to, she may break out in hives. She may also show other signs of allergy including difficulty breathing, runny nose, watery eyes, wheezing, and other similar symptoms. These symptoms can help you determine when your dog is having an allergic reaction to a plant.
Fleas
Fleas are not a seasonal allergy problem in dogs per se, but they do get worse during certain times of the year. Although all dogs will itch if they’re bitten by fleas, some may be much more allergic to flea saliva than others. If your dog’s allergic symptoms get worse during flea season, and especially if she has fleas herself, this may be a sign she is allergic to flea saliva.
Talk to your vet in Matthews if your dog shows signs of being allergic to flea saliva. Your veterinarian may need to prescribe medication to help your dog recover from a flea infestation.
Your Veterinarian in Matthews, NC Can Help with Seasonal Allergies in Dogs
Most of the seasonal allergies that can affect dogs are similar to those that affect humans. Therefore, it can be pretty easy to understand what your dog is going through when her allergies strike.
If you think your dog might be dealing with seasonal allergies, bring it up with your vet during her next regularly scheduled vet visit. As long as your dog isn’t having any trouble breathing, there’s no need to worry about taking her to the emergency vet for allergies.
If you have questions about seasonal allergies in dogs, or would like to schedule an appointment, call our team at Caring Hearts Animal Hospital in Matthews today at (704) 893-2799!