This past winter was a very long and hard one to say the least!
But it’s finally over and spring is on it’s way.
How do I know this?
Well I can finally enjoy my backyard again, laying in the sun, watching the birds and squirrels invade my space, and sniff all the grass that was buried under snow for all too long!
How else do I know spring is finally here?
I’m itchy!
Yes, it’s dreaded allergy season again.
It starts with my paws, lick, lick, lick, and then of course there is the scratching.
As soon as my humans start to see these symptoms it’s into the wash tub for me. I’m fortunate that I don’t require any medications from my Veterinarian, but I do get a soothing shampoo and conditioner from her that helps wash out the allergens and relieves my skin.
Many pet owners can mistakenly believe that the signs of seasonal allergies present the same in their dogs as it does in humans: itchy, watery eyes and sneezing – but dogs express their allergies through their skin.
If you have a dog with seasonal allergies, the signs listed below may be all too familiar.
Signs of seasonal allergies in dogs include:
Ear infections
Reluctance to hear handling
Itchy or swollen red skin
Excessively chewing paws
An easy way to remember is to think ESP : Ears. Skin, Paws
For a list of common allergens that can effect your dog, and photos of dogs “before and after”, check out this informative article, “Itchy Pet See Your Vet” by Royal Canin Canada
Not all dog’s need medications such as steroids to control seasonal allergies.
Your Veterinarian can also prescribe a quality food, such as Royal Canin’s Skin Care, which can help the skin form a protective barrier against seasonal allergies and high fatty acid diets that can help reduce inflammation.
An Ipsos Reid poll revealed that there is still education needed when it comes to using diet to treat seasonal allergies — to reduce reliance on medication such as steroids. Of those dog owners polled, 45 per cent don’t know that a dog’s diet can have an impact on seasonal allergies.
To help take the “itch” out of your dog’s seasonal allergies, Royal Canin Canada is having a contest!
Contest open from 12:00:01 a.m. EDST May 1, 2014 to 11:59:59 p.m. EDST May 20, 2014. No purchase necessary. Must be legal resident of Canada who has reached age of majority in their province of residence. Must be a client of a licensed veterinary clinic for dog or cat care services any time during the period from May 1, 2009 to May 1, 2014. Selected entrant must correctly answer skill-testing question. Prize: $100.00 (CDN) Visa Gift Card and up to $500.00 (CAD) in Royal Canin brand dog or cat food sold by entrant’s veterinary clinic. Void where prohibited. See Contest Rules: http://www.royalcanin.ca/index.php/Itchy-Pet-Blogger-Contest-Rules.
This post graciously sponsored by Royal Canin Canada
May 7, 2014
Our Lois has cray cray allergies. We’re not sure if they’re food or environmental related 🙁 What we do know is she has the classic symptoms described in your post.
May 8, 2014
I used to think my allergies where food related, but now I realize that the symptoms always appear in the spring and fall when certain plants and trees are in bloom.
May 2, 2014
Good information for all of us with itchy pets, thanks for sharing with us!