Ensuring our dog companion's wellbeing is our first priority as devoted pet owners. All dogs occasionally itch, but when they begin to do so intensely, wrinkling their faces, and displaying obvious discomfort, something is amiss. Unbelievably, allergies affect more pets than people realize. Recognizing the signs early on is essential to acting quickly to relieve your dog's suffering. The top 5 allergy symptoms that dog owners should be aware of are listed below by Good Mama:
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Frequent Itching and Scratching:
It's reason for concern if you see your dog chewing on their paws, back, tail, ears, or rubbing their face on furniture on a regular basis. If you've already examined them for fleas and ticks and found none, there's a good chance that an allergic reaction is starting. The immune system reacting to allergens frequently causes irritation, which results in discomfort and an obvious desire for relief.
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Redness or Irritated Skin:
Dogs that experience allergic responses may exhibit skin redness or discomfort. It is clear that your dog has allergies if you see red, swollen spots on their coat, or on the skin of their paws (especially in the spaces between their toes), armpits, or groin area. Allergy-related reactions can occasionally result in hot spots, which are isolated regions of extreme irritation and inflammation that need to be treated right once. If therapy is postponed, they may potentially result in other health issues.
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Ear Infections:
Dogs with allergies are particularly vulnerable to ear infections. A possible allergic reaction is indicated if you see your dog shaking their head a lot, picking at their ears, or if you smell something strange coming from their ears. It is known that some food allergies can cause an overabundance of bacteria or yeast in the ears, which can result in infections that need to be treated by a veterinarian.
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Gastrointestinal Issues:
Dog allergies can cause symptoms that are not limited to the skin. Food allergies or sensitivities may be the cause of digestive issues like diarrhea, vomiting, or decreased appetite. Observe your dog's eating patterns and bowel motions. In order to determine potential allergens and modify your dog's food if you observe ongoing gastrointestinal problems, speak with your veterinarian.
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Watery Eyes and Sneezing:
Dogs are susceptible to respiratory allergies, much as people. Your dog may have airborne allergies if you notice them wiping their eyes a lot, having wet eyes, having tear streaks, or having fits of sneezing. These symptoms could be brought on by dust mites, pollens, or other environmental allergies. Your dog's overall quality of life can be enhanced and relief can be obtained by treating the underlying problem..
Taking Measures: What to Do If You Think Your Dog May Have Allergies
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Speak with a veterinarian: Since animals generally have a high pain tolerance, don't wait for your pet's issue to get worse. It's imperative to see a veterinarian if any of the symptoms listed above continue. They are able to conduct the required tests in order to pinpoint particular triggers and suggest a suitable course of action. In case it looks like an allergic reaction, taking a medicine for short term relief and getting tests to identify the source of allergen is recommended. Without knowing the source of allergen and removing the same from your pet’s environment/meals, long term relief may not be possible.
- Using pet friendly alternatives: Reduce any possible allergies in your pet's environment and space. Using natural & pet friendly alternatives to floor cleaners, regularly cleaning the beddings and dusting them with herbal powders such as neem powder, diatomaceous earth, leaving them in the sun to remove moisture and kill possible parasites and egg infestations etc go a long way.
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Dietary Changes: Many times allergies are related to some of the ingredients in your pet’s meals. Identify, and methodically remove each food item that may be causing your dog's allergy, one at a time. Switching to fresh, well planned and species appropriate meals is extremely beneficial. We are happy to help plan this for your pet - please reach out here for support
