Does my dog have hay fever?

How can you support your dog with hay fever?

A pollen allergy can be very unpleasant for your dog. The itching may cause them to scratch or lick themselves to the point of irritation. Eye problems, ear and skin infections, or even respiratory issues may also occur. If you suspect your dog has hay fever, it’s best to first have your vet rule out any other medical causes. Depending on the severity of the symptoms, medication might be needed, or immune support could be sufficient. In consultation with your vet, you might also consider allergy testing and treatment.

Supporting your dog’s immune system

In a dog with hay fever, the immune system is highly reactive and responds to environmental triggers that shouldn’t normally cause a reaction. To support the immune system, complementary feeds and supplements can be used.

Puur Pollen contains dilutions of many common grass and plant types. By introducing the body to small doses of these pollens, it gradually learns that they are harmless. This reduces the allergic response — a process known as hyposensitisation.

Supplements for respiratory support

Groene Os Scutellaria Tincture can help relieve symptoms when pollen levels are high. These drops have a soothing effect on the respiratory tract.

Supplements for mucosal support

Singulares Organic Evening Primrose Oil contains a high concentration of essential fatty acids that pets cannot produce on their own. These fatty acids are important in a balanced diet and can be supplemented as needed to support mucous membranes, breathing and skin.

Helping reduce pollen exposure

After a walk, a fine layer of pollen can settle on your dog’s coat — something you might not immediately notice. This pollen can once again trigger the immune system. It helps to strengthen your dog’s skin barrier and limit exposure. Here’s how:

• Wipe your dog’s coat with a damp washcloth after every walk. The fewer pollen particles on your dog, the better. Don’t forget to clean the paw pads and legs.
• Bathe your dog regularly with a shampoo formulated for sensitive or irritated skin. If your dog is not easy to bathe, there is also a convenient foam or spray. Ermidra Shampoo removes dead skin cells, supports healthy skin tissue and combats unwanted microorganisms. It also has a soothing effect on the skin.
• Improve the condition of the skin barrier by applying essential fatty acids and botanical oils. With Atop7 Spot-on, you support the skin’s natural ability to recover, helping to reduce reactions to environmental allergens.
• A home spray can help reduce the amount of pollen brought indoors.

Additional support for allergic dogs

If your dog has been scratching excessively, it may cause irritation to the skin, eyes or ears. At the first signs of irritation, these products may help:

• Optixcare Eye Lube to soothe and care for irritated eyes
• TVM Viskyal with hyaluronic acid to protect the cornea in dry eyes
• CLX-Wipes for cleaning hard-to-reach areas like skin folds and between the toes. These wipes inhibit the development of microorganisms and can be used for bacterial or yeast infections.
• Otoact Ear Cleaner to remove excess earwax — always clean your dog’s ears outside to keep your home clean!
• Otodine for cleaning sensitive and irritated ears. If your dog suffers from both sensitive ears and excessive wax, a combination of Otoact and Otodine may be necessary.

Does your dog suffer from severe allergic symptoms that can’t be controlled with the above measures?

Then contact your vet. An allergic dog requires support on multiple levels. Finding the right combination of care can take time and is best done in consultation with your veterinarian.

Do you have questions about hay fever and pollen allergies in dogs? Contact us at [email protected]