Spring is finally upon us, and unfortunately so are seasonal allergies.

Do dogs get seasonal allergies like humans? Yes, dog allergies are usually caused by the same triggers that occur in our allergies. According to a survey conducted by Novartis Animal Health, over half of pet owners aren’t aware their furry family members can also spend the spring and summers months feeling miserable thanks to pollens and other environmental allergens.

These common allergens include: grasses, mold and mildew, pollen and dust mites.

Unlike humans whose allergy symptoms usually involve the respiratory tract, allergies in dogs more often take the form of skin irritations or inflammation. When a dog has allergies he will become extremely itchy and to relieve the itchiness, your dog will scratch and chew himself.

Signs of allergies include:

  • Chewing at the feet
  • Constant licking of the flank and groin area
  • Rubbing of the face
  • Inflamed ears or recurrent ear infections
  • Hot spots

How can you help your dog cope with seasonal allergies?

  1. Frequent baths to help soothe the skin and wash away allergens on his coat and skin. The Pooch Mobile has an Organic Pine Tar shampoo which is perfect for irritated skin.
  2. Wash his paws each time he comes inside to lessen the spread of allergens throughout the house.
  3. Try a grain free food low in carbohydrates.
  4. Vacuum floors and wash dog bedding regularly to keep allergens to a minimum.
  5. Use an allergen filter in your home and change regularly.