Dogs can suffer with hay fever at this time of year, just like humans can - and it can certainly affect their enjoyment of the outdoors during the summer months.
So how can you tell if your dog does have hay fever? And what’s the best way to manage their symptoms so they can have fun and enjoy the outdoors?
Signs of Hay Fever in Dogs
If your dog does have a pollen allergy the chances are they’ll experience the same symptoms that you would. These can include:
- Runny nose
- Sore eyes
- Itchy skin
- Sneezing frequently
- Skin rashes
However, dogs are most likely to experience itchy, irritated skin causing them to which causes them to scratch, lick, and chew excessively. They may not show any other signs of an allergic reaction.
What Causes Hay Fever in Dogs?
Hay fever in people and in animals is a seasonal allergy to pollen from trees, grass and weeds. The specific types of pollen can vary by region and season, with some pollen counts higher than others at certain times of year.
Pollen allergies in dogs can also be part of a more general allergic condition called Atopic Dermatitis. If you notice any allergic reactions your first port of call should always be your vet.
How Can You Help Your Dog With Hay Fever?
- Avoid Contact with Pollen
The most obvious thing you can do is to reduce your dog’s contact with pollen! Keep an eye on pollen counts and try to take them out when counts are low. Try your best to plan walking routes that avoid very green areas. You can also keep a diary of when your dog’s symptoms are at their worst and try to identify the specific plants that are causing the reaction.