Sometimes a dog sneeze is his way of showing his excitement. But sometimes he’s reacting to an allergen. Dog allergies are real and can cause intense discomfort.
What Is An Allergen?
The thing that makes you sneeze, cough, itch, and twitch might be an allergen. It could be a substance left behind by an insect bite that makes your skin itch and swell. It could be pollen in the grass that makes you and your dog sneeze. Allergens are substances that ignite allergic reactions.
What Are Symptoms of Dog Allergies?
The symptoms of an allergic reaction are the same for dogs as in humans:
- Red, watery, and itchy eyes? Could be an allergy
- Itchy skin and red welts? Could be an allergy
- Runny nose and sneezing? Could be an allergy
- Coughing and wheezing? Could be an allergy
Other symptoms to watch for include:
- Hair loss
- Licking and scratching
- Vomiting/diarrhea
What Is Causing My Dog’s Allergic Reactions?
Anything and everything can cause a doggie to have an allergic or sensitive reaction.
Indoor
Indoor allergens can include:
- Carpet cleaners
- Laundry detergent residue
- Pet food
- Mold
- Dust/skin mites
Outdoor
Outdoor allergens can include:
- Pollen
- Lawn chemicals
- Grass
- Insect bites
Is it Allergies or Something Else?
Is your dog licking or scratching more than normal? Something is irritating his skin. If you aren’t sure what is causing the irritation, call us right away at (404) 633‑6163 to schedule an appointment. If the scratching has led to bleeding, it’s important to get your pet in to see us quickly. Open sores can lead to bacterial infections. If you feel your pet needs immediate care, contact us immediately.
Other symptoms should trigger a call for an appointment, too. We’ll do a thorough examination to rule out any more serious conditions that could be the cause of your dog’s discomfort.
What Treatments Are Available for Dog Allergies?
Your veterinarian’s exam of your pet will help determine the cause of the allergic reaction. Treatments will be recommended based on the source of the sensitivity:
- Shots
- Parasite prevention medication
- Medicated shampoo
- Change in diet
- Recommendations for preferred household cleaners
- Medications
You Can’t Protect Them Against Everything!
As much as we’d like to, we just can’t protect our pets against every possible injury, illness, or other distress. They follow their noses, and their noses can lead them into all sorts of health and other troubles. They run through weeds and get stung by bees and eat garbage and trash. They are, after all, dogs. Do the best you can by watching for reactions and get them in to see the vet when problems arise.
We’re Here for Your Pets When They Need Us
At Clairmont Animal Hospital, our staff and veterinarians are here for all your pet’s health care needs. Call us when you need us at (404) 633-6163 and keep regular wellness appointments, vaccinations, and parasite prevention medications.