Outdoor Allergens: How They Affect Dogs and What You Can Do About Them

Outdoor Allergens: How They Affect Dogs and What You Can Do About Them

 

By Lisa Selvaggio

For a dog who loves to frolic in the great outdoors and roll around on the ground, allergies from grass and pollen can definitely dampen his fun. If you understand the causes of your dog's allergies, though, you can take steps to prevent or resolve them naturally.

Symptoms Associated with Allergies in Dogs

While humans deal with watery eyes, sneezing, and a runny nose when allergy season hits and pollen is in the air, canines' bodies react differently. Dogs who suffer with allergies will often have itchy skin, so you'll see your pet scratching incessantly in order to try to bring about some relief. Your pet will more than likely lick his paws a lot or rub his face. Watery eyes, though not as common as skin irritation, can also occur. And ear infections may result from exposure to allergens like grass, trees, pollen, mold, dander, and dust.

It's important to note that excessive scratching can lead to open wounds and sores that can become infected and lead to hair loss. Therefore, if you see your pet behaving this way and you know that he's clearly uncomfortable, take a trip to the vet for a proper diagnosis and to rule out other more serious conditions that can cause skin ailments. Also, in the event that your pet is suffering from allergies, you'll definitely want to resolve the problem and help your pet feel better, and your vet will steer you in the right direction.

What You Can Do to Reduce Exposure

While you certainly can't completely eliminate your pet's exposure to outdoor allergens, you can take steps to reduce the level of exposure so that the allergies aren't as severe. Keep your grass short to prevent seeding heads from forming. You may even choose to set aside an area of your yard that's covered in sand or gravel specifically for your dog so he can play without being exposed to a lot of grass. While outside, train your dog to not roll in the grass. And before heading back inside, wipe down your dog with a damp cloth in order to remove pollen from fur and paws.

Nutrition and Natural Remedies

Because nutrition is the foundation of health, feed your dog a high quality food that contains animal proteins and fatty acids that will keep the skin and coat healthy and provide anti-inflammatory benefits as well.

Although your vet may want to prescribe strong medications to combat inflammation, keep in mind that these should only be used short-term, as many come with severe side effects. If you wish to take a more integrative or holistic approach to your pet's health, you can try Azmira's Aller’G: Grass & Pollen, which contains a blend of beneficial herbs that will bring relief to your pet and strengthen the immune system. And if your dog's skin is really irritated, you can use Itchin’ for Relief, loaded with natural ingredients, such as calendula, boswellia, and aloe, that will soothe irritated skin, reduce inflammation, and prevent infections.

Remember, the stronger your pet's overall constitution is---through proper diet, exercise, and a toxin-free environment---the easier it will be to prevent allergies from taking hold and taking their toll on his wellbeing and health. So start with nutrition and focus on keeping your dog's immune system strong by reducing his exposure to potential allergens in his diet and environment.

 

Animals have taught Lisa all about unconditional love and forgiveness, and she loves sharing her home with her fur babies. After volunteering in animal rescue, she acquired her certification in canine and feline nutrition and continues to study holistic health for both people and their pets.