Itching for fall

Autum is actually the peak time for ragweed and mold spores, which are common allergerns for two- and four-leggers alike. If your pet is prone to allergies, follow these tips to avoid potential fall flare-ups:

Mold thrives in decaying vegetation, such as leaves. Once you've raked all the leaves from your yard into piles, be sure to bag them up to avoid mold growth.

If your pet is sensitive to allergens, avoid or limit outdoor playtime, especially among the leaves. A good time for outdoor play is after a rainfall.

Bump up the number of baths your pet gets during her peak allergy season. Twice weekly bathing can keep allergen levels down. Using soothing shampoos and creme rinses will help quiet irritated skin.

Fleas and ticks can contribute to =itchy si=kin. Be sure to use a monthly preventative, such as Frontline, regularly.

Add omega-3 fatty acids to your pet's diet. In addition to contributing to helthy skin, they can be beneficial to your pet's joints and cognitive function.

If your pet's itch can't be easily scratched, visit your veterinarian. Oral antihistamines or steroids may be necessary. For persistant seasonal allergies, consider having your pet tested to determine the source of the trouble.

Fetch 2011 No. 3 issue 9

Seasonal Allergies in Dogs

Ahh...spring.

The flowers are in bloom and the weather is getting warmer. Certainly our love for outdoor activities are growing by day. Spring also exposes us and our four-legged friends to flower and tree pollens, making us highly attractive with itchy eyes and runny noses.

You may have noticed how our dogs scratch and/or lick a little more since we have started to enjoy the colorful flowers and warmer weather. These may be signs of seasonal allergies in our companions. Dogs can certainly have mild to moderate tear-like discharge from the eyes but more commonly, they start to scratch their bodies or lick their paws.

Antihistamines, either over-the-counter or prescription, can help relieve signs of seasonal allergies. Some dogs may require more than antihistamines to have their allergy-related signs under control. Flea or mite infestation, bacterial skin infection, or fungal skin infection can cause similar signs. If you notice that your four-legged friend is experiencing severe itchiness, please contact your veterinarian for an evaluation.