Dogs can have environmental allergies just like people, often to the same things. You might be surprised that allergens in your house can make your dog as miserable as they make you. And, you may have been mistaking the symptoms for something else, including food allergies.
Environmental allergies outside your house can also affect your pup. As the weather warms up and spring comes, grass grows, flowers and trees bloom, and the world smells amazing. But with all the good things it brings, spring also brings allergens.
Allergens to Watch For
There are certain allergens tend to cause more trouble than others. Pay special attention to your dog after being exposed to these for signs of an allergic reaction.
1. Pollen. Dogs can be allergic to all types of pollen: weed, grass, trees, flowers, etc. If your dog ends up being allergic to one of these, limiting their contact will help alleviate their suffering.
2. Dust Mites. Feeding off dead skin cells, mites are really not good for anyone, whether you have an actual reaction or not. Keep your house clean to minimize the number of these disgusting little guys in your house.
3. Mold. Probably the most dangerous, molds can actually be deadly to your dog. Aside from allergic reactions, molds such as blastomycosis dermatitdis that are found in decaying wood and soil, can kill your dog. It’s found in damp soil such as riverbanks, lakes, and swamps. Look for fever, loss of appetite, weight loss, eye discharge, difficulty breathing, skin lesions, after being in damp, dark environments (www.petmd.com).
4. Dander. Believe it or not, your dog can be allergic to other animals in the house, including you! Yup, just like humans can be allergic to dogs, your loving pup could actually be allergic to you. Although rare, it is something to look for if you have ruled out everything else and your dog is still uncomfortable.
5. Detergents. Clothes washing detergents and dryer sheets used to clean dog beds, towels, and toys can cause allergic reactions on dogs with sensitive skin. In fact, some dogs are so sensitive that even being on the lap of a person wearing clothes washed in the same detergent can cause a reaction.
If your dog starts showing signs of discomfort such as scratching, biting, red, bumpy, inflamed skin, watery eyes, etc., take them to your vet for an allergen test.
About the Author
Based in Tustin, Calif., animal lover Kristina N. Lotz is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA) and works as a full time trainer. She also owns her own custom pet products company, A Fairytail House, where she makes personalized collars, leashes, beds, keepsake pillows and blankets, and anything else your imagine can think up. In her spare time, she trains and competes in herding, agility, obedience, rally, and conformation with her Shetland Sheepdogs.
