Fall allergies in dogs

Spring is not the only season that causes environmental allergies in dogs. Some dogs are not affected by tree or grass pollen but suffer greatly from mold or fungal spores. Autumn allergies are common in dogs and cause various symptoms - from watery eyes to skin problems.

While most consider spring and summer the classic "culprits" for seasonal allergies, the colder months also bring allergens that can affect dogs, some more than you might expect.

Here are a few things you need to know about dog fall allergies:

What are the symptoms of autumn allergies?

Common symptoms of environmental allergies (also called atopy) at any time of the year, including fall, are 

• Itchy skin (especially paws, belly and inner thighs) or ears

• Red skin, rash, scabs, or skin infections

• Chronic ear infections or smelly ears 

• Watery or red eyes 

• Possible sneezing, coughing, or indigestion - such symptoms are much less common, although dogs with collapsing trachea (a genetic problem common in small dogs) are more likely to show coughing. 

These symptoms can be present only for one season or all year round, depending on what the dog is allergic to and how severe the symptoms are.

Causes of autumn allergies in dogs

Environmental allergies occur when the immune system overreacts to foreign substances, such as pollen or dust mites. These substances, called allergens, can be inhaled, swallowed, or come into contact with the skin. The body then reacts with inflammation, leading to itching, redness, rashes, or swelling.

Often, the dog will lick or nibble on the affected area, resulting in secondary bacterial or fungal skin infections. This, in turn, causes a vicious cycle of even more itching.

There are few flowering plants in the fall, but some plants (especially ragweed) release pollen right during this transition season when the weather starts to get colder, and the fall winds can spread the pollen over long distances.

Mold is also more common in autumn, both indoors and outdoors. Rain and piles of autumn leaves are ideal conditions for mold growth. Dust mites are also common allergens.

Like people, dogs can be exposed to dust and mites when the heating season starts. Even fleas can appear, especially when the weather is still quite warm and the humidity in their environment increases. 

How do I know if autumn allergies cause my dog's symptoms or if it is something else? 

Although environmental allergies are common, many other health conditions cause similar symptoms. Knowing which is causing your dog's itchy skin or ear infection is essential. Knowing the cause of your dog's symptoms will help determine the best course of treatment.

For example, red eyes can be a sign of seasonal allergies, but they can also result from an infection, eye injury, or even glaucoma - all of which require different treatments.

Allergic dermatitis caused by fleas (allergic reaction to a flea bite) is widespread.

Food allergies, although less common, are also possible.

And mites can also cause allergic skin lesions. The above problems require different or additional treatments compared to autumn allergies. There are also respiratory infections, such as kennel cough, which can be mistaken for an allergy. Because of everything we have stated, taking your pet to the vet is essential to determine what it is. 

Diagnosing autumn allergies

Any new allergy-like symptoms require a visit to the vet. Allergies are generally not considered an emergency unless a severe allergic reaction (also called anaphylactic shock, like the reaction some sensitive people or dogs may experience after a bee sting) is present.

However, seasonal allergies, as we have already stated, can cause itching and, consequently, skin wounds or secondary infections due to scratching or licking. Therefore, it is better to visit the vet than to wait for the symptoms to worsen.

Your veterinarian should begin by asking about possible allergen exposures and performing a complete physical exam.

Simple skin tests (looking for bacteria, fungi, or microscopic skin mites) or checking for an ear infection may follow, depending on the symptoms. If another medical condition is suspected, additional tests will be recommended.

 If the need arises, such as an eye examination, tests for infectious diseases, or other diagnostics (blood count, X-rays).

If allergies are found to be the cause of the problem, a special, hypoallergenic diet may be recommended to rule out food allergies. But blood testing is much faster (though more expensive), because it takes months to determine a food allergy, and it doesn't have to be the only allergy that bothers the dog. 

Treatment of autumn allergies in dogs

Unfortunately, there is no cure for allergies. The symptoms can be controlled, but it is essential to talk to a doctor first.

Dogs with more severe symptoms are usually given steroid medication, which can be used as needed or given long-term, depending on how often the symptoms occur and how much it affects their quality of life. Desensitizing allergy shots can also be ordered based on blood test results. In some cases of allergies, some dogs develop a secondary skin or ear infection and need medication to bring the condition under control. Suppose your dog suffers from autumn allergies - which you should determine by examining the vet (in lay terms - if no disease or parasite is present, then it may be an allergy) and possibly testing for the most common allergens for the climate in which you are located. In case your dog suffers from allergies, please get in touch with us because we have excellent results in keeping the symptoms under control with the help of VetHealth Broad Spectrum Oil - of course, we nwill eed information such as weight, age, and description of the condition (and if possible, photos of the skin) of the pet - feel free to contact us in the inbox on our social networks!

In addition, you can take a few other helpful actions to reduce symptoms – after a walk, wipe your dog's paws and belly with a clean, wet cloth to physically remove the pollen. Bathe him once a week, especially after a trip in nature, with a mild shampoo (or a special shampoo for atopic dogs), vacuum the living space, and once a week wash the dog beds in the washing machine at 60 degrees Celsius, because that temperature kills mites. The same applies to your bedding if you sleep together. Use parasite prevention and feed your pet with quality food so that it has the most robust possible immunity.

And, of course, don't forget to try VetHealthBroad Spectrum Oil! There are no side effects; it is produced in Croatia organically, without pesticides, and formulated in cooperation with a veterinarian - a winning combination!

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