Seasonal Allergies in Dogs

By Jennifer Gittins

Instructions

Types

Step 1:
Dogs and people can share many of the same allergens. Some of these common allergens include trees, grass or weeds and pollen, fabrics, foods or food additives, milk, dust and dust mites or even fleas.

Identification

Step 1:
Signs that dogs are suffering from seasonal allergies include itching of the entire body, ear infections, skin lesions and occasional hair loss. His skin can also develop symptoms, becoming dry, patchy, red, crusty or oily.

Misconceptions

Step 1:
While humans may exhibit watery eyes, runny noses or sneezing, dogs will not. For dogs, the most common reaction to an allergen is mild to severe itching of the entire body.

Solution

Step 1:
A veterinarian can do allergy testing when you suspect allergies are affecting your dog. Once the specific allergens have been determined, the vet can also prescribe a medication to help ease your pet's symptoms.

Warning

Step 1:
Dogs should not be given human medication for allergies, unless directed by a vet. Your vet will give you instructions on how much and how often, and it is important to strictly follow these.

Resources

HomeVet.com: Allergies and the Itchy Pet

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