Springtime Pet Care: How to Protect Your Pet from Allergies and Pests

Who doesn’t love the spring? It’s a time to dust off the cold weather of winter and head outside, eager to see the grass turn green again, the trees and flowers bloom, and enjoy all that Mother Nature has to offer. But with the spring comes some not so desirable elements—allergies and pests. 

It’s estimated that nearly 26% of adults and 19% of children suffer from seasonal allergies. That’s over 80 million people in the U.S. But what about our pets? Unfortunately, allergies can do them in as well. Nearly 10% to 15% of cats and dogs experience seasonal allergies. And those pests? Well, they might be fun for pets to chase, but certain bites can mean itching and a not so happy Fido.

In this article, we’ll share the inside scoop on dog allergies treatment so you can help your pooch feel better. Is your pet of the feline variety? Your team here at Crown and Paw has got the skinny on cat allergy treatment, too. Read on for what you need to know.

What to Know About Seasonal Allergies in Pets

All dogs and cats tend to lick certain areas of their body and for various reasons. It might be a quick paw wash after they consume their evening email. Or maybe they have an itch behind their ear. But when that licking seems incessant and is fixated on one particular area, it can be the sign of a bigger problem. Excessive licking, scratching, or chewing can signal an underlying issue, and seasonal allergies are often to blame.

Just like people, pets can react to environmental allergens that show up in full force during spring. The difference? Instead of sneezing into a tissue, your furry friend may develop itchy skin, watery eyes, or even ear infections. So, what’s behind these seasonal flare-ups? Here are some of the biggest allergy triggers that could be making your pet uncomfortable:

• Pollen: Trees, grass, and flowers release pollen into the air, which sticks to fur and paws.

• Mold spores: Damp spring conditions can cause mold to flourish, leading to airborne allergens.

• Dust mites: These tiny troublemakers hide in carpets, pet beds, and furniture, making indoor allergies a problem too.

• Fleas and flea saliva: Some pets are hypersensitive to flea bites, even if they don’t have a full-blown infestation.

• Certain grasses and weeds: Rolling around in fresh grass might feel great but can leave pets with red, irritated skin.

When sseasonal allergies in dog hit, Fido might not know how to cope. He will rely on you to spot the signs and take steps to help him feel better—so let’s talk about how to recognize the symptoms.

Signs Your Pet Has Seasonal Allergies

So, how do you know if your pet is dealing with allergies or if it is something else? Here are some common indicators.

• Excessive licking, chewing, or scratching: Especially around the paws, belly, ears, and armpits.

• Red, inflamed, or irritated skin: Often accompanied by hair loss or the development of “hot spots.”

• Watery, itchy eyes: Your pet may frequently rub their face against furniture, carpets, or even you.

• Frequent ear infections: Allergies can lead to a buildup of yeast or bacteria in the ears, causing odor and discomfort.

• Sneezing or nasal discharge: While less common than in humans, some pets do experience allergy-related sneezing.

• Paw chewing or excessive paw licking: A sign that allergens may be irritating their skin after outdoor time.

• Scooting or excessive licking of the rear end: Allergies can cause irritation in unexpected areas.

• Changes in energy or mood: If your pet seems more tired or irritable, allergies might be the culprit.

If your pet is showing one or more of these signs, seasonal allergies could be at play. And what should you do next? Finding out exactly what’s causing the reaction—and that’s where a dog allergy test can help.

Dog Allergy Testing: How to Get Answers

Most cat owners tend to keep their felines indoors, and as such, springtime allergies might not be so obvious. But for dog owners, quite the opposite might be the case. Dogs tend to do their business outdoors and enjoy frequent walks, which means they are exposed to the outdoor elements much more often. 

This said, if your dog is showing signs of any of those indicators we mentioned above, some dog allergy testing might be in order. Testing helps determine what’s causing the reaction—whether it’s pollen, dust mites, mold, or even certain foods.

There are two common ways to test for allergies in dogs:

• Intradermal (skin) testing: A vet injects small amounts of common allergens under the skin and monitors the reaction. This method is considered highly reliable for environmental allergies.

• Blood (serum) testing: A sample of your dog’s blood is analyzed for antibodies that indicate allergic responses to specific triggers.

Once testing pinpoints the allergens affecting your pup, the next step is figuring out how to manage their symptoms. Let’s explore the different ways to help your dog feel more comfortable this spring.

Treatment and Relief for Pet Allergies

We all want our pets to feel their best, and there’s no doubt that allergies are no fun. Since you can’t wrap your pet up in a protective suit (though if you’ve got some custom knitwear with your pet’s face on it, that’s a solid start to showing your love), treatment is the best course of action. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to help your furry friend find relief.

• Medicated shampoos and wipes: Regular baths with a gentle, hypoallergenic shampoo can help remove allergens from your pet’s fur and skin. Wipes are great for quick clean-ups after outdoor adventures.

• Dog allergies treatment with antihistamines or prescription medications: Some over-the-counter antihistamines work for mild allergies, while more severe cases may require prescription medications from a vet.

• Dietary support for skin health: Omega-3 fatty acids and other supplements can promote healthier skin, making it less reactive to allergens.

• Cat allergy treatment with environmental adjustments: Since many cats stay indoors, frequent dusting, air purifiers, and washing their bedding can reduce exposure to allergens.

• Topical sprays and creams: Anti-itch sprays and creams can soothe irritated skin and provide immediate relief from scratching.

• Allergy shots (immunotherapy): For long-term management, allergy shots can help desensitize your pet to specific allergens over time.

• Flea prevention: Some pets react to flea bites more than others, so keeping up with flea control is an important part of managing allergy symptoms.

The Battle Against Springtime Pests

We’d be remiss if we didn’t talk briefly about some of those springtime pests that can make our time outdoors a bit less enjoyable. And for pets, some of these pests can cause diseases, skin irritation, and even severe allergic reactions.

The biggest troublemakers? Fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes.

• Fleas can trigger intense itching, hair loss, and allergic reactions.

• Ticks latch onto the skin and may spread diseases like Lyme disease.

• Mosquitoes can carry heartworm, which is dangerous for dogs.

Here’s how to keep pests at bay:

• Topical treatments: Monthly spot-on treatments protect against fleas and ticks.

• Flea and tick collars: Some provide long-lasting protection without the need for frequent applications.

• Natural alternatives: Diatomaceous earth, essential oils (pet-safe ones only), and apple cider vinegar sprays may help.

Making Spring a Happy, Healthy Time for You and Your Pet

Spring is a time for sunshine, fresh air, and outdoor fun—but for pets, it can also mean dealing with allergies and pesky bugs. Whether your furry friend is scratching more than usual or sneezing up a storm, a little preparation goes a long way. Dog allergies treatment can include medicated shampoos, antihistamines, or even allergy shots, while cat allergy treatment often involves reducing allergens in the home and using vet-approved solutions.

And let’s not forget about fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes—these unwelcome guests can cause more than just an itch. Regular grooming, pest prevention, and keeping an eye on dog allergies can help your pet enjoy spring to the fullest. With a few simple steps, you and your four-legged companion can soak up the season, itch-free and happy!