Spring will be here before you know it. If you suffer from allergies, you know it's time to get ready for hay fever season. What you might not know is that your dog could be suffering from hay fever, as well. If your dog comes down with a serious case of itchy skin each spring, chances are it's suffering from the same condition that has you reaching for allergy medications. Luckily, there are some simple steps you can take to keep your pet comfortable. Here are some methods you can use to help keep your dog comfortable during hay fever season.
Let it Soak
If your dog is suffering from hay fever, one of the simplest ways to alleviate the distress is to let it soak. Fill your tub with cool water and add about one cup of colloidal oatmeal. The combination of cool water and colloidal oatmeal will alleviate the itching and reduce the inflammation. Let your dog soak for about 15 minutes at a time. You can repeat the bath time whenever your pet begins scratching. Be sure to avoid warm water, as it can increase the symptoms of hay fever.
Limit the Time Outdoors
If going outdoors during hay fever season increases your symptoms, it's probably doing the same thing to your dog. While your pet is experiencing the itchy skin associated with canine hay fever, try to limit the amount of time it spends outdoors. When it does have to go outdoors to relieve itself, be sure to use a damp cloth to wipe its fur and feet off as soon as it comes back inside. Wiping your dog's feet and fur will remove the pollen that could invite a flare-up.
Change the Filters
During allergy season, pollen and other allergens can filter into your home through your vents. The best way to limit your dog's exposure to those allergens is to keep your furnace filter clean. Be sure to change the filter on your heating and air conditioning unit at least once every three months. If your pet is experiencing severe allergy symptoms, switch the filter once a month until allergy season is over.
See the Vet
In some cases, canine allergy symptoms can become severe. When that happens, you'll need to seek medical attention. If your dog should exhibit any of the following symptoms, speak to your veterinarian as soon as possible.
Allergy season will soon be here. If your dog suffers from hay fever, use the tips provided here to alleviate the symptoms. For other tips on how to treat your dog's allergies, be sure to speak to local vet such as those found at Pitts Veterinary Hospital PC.
Share9 January 2017
Hello, my name is Katrina, and I love my dog. We live out in the country, so he is able to run a lot. He even has neighboring dogs who come to see him and play. However, fresh air and exercise are not the only things he needs. He also needs a healthy diet, the right shots, and care for his mental health. If you are a pet owner, you will love the tips that I plan to include in this blog. I'm going to focus these posts on everything you need to know to keep your dog happy and healthy. I hope these ideas help you, and I wish you and your pet many years of happiness and good health together.