Sunshine, blooming flowers, backyard barbecues—summer in Decatur, Georgia, is a beautiful thing. But for many pets, it’s also allergy season. If your dog is suddenly scratching like there’s no tomorrow, or your cat is sneezing up a storm, seasonal allergies might be to blame. At Clairmont Animal Hospital, we help families like yours manage summer pet allergies so your furry friends can stay comfortable, happy, and active.
Let’s dig into what causes those warm-weather sniffles and itches—and how you can give your pet some much-needed relief.
Why Do Pets Get Seasonal Allergies?
Much like humans, pets can react to environmental allergens such as:
- Grass and tree pollens
- Mold spores
- Dust mites
- Fleas or insect bites
When pets are allergic to something, their immune system responds as if it were an invader. The result? Inflammation, skin irritation, ear infections, respiratory issues—you name it.
Summer in Georgia tends to bring high humidity, lush plant growth, and long stretches of outdoor time. That combination can really stir things up for sensitive pets.
Signs Your Pet Might Be Allergic
Your pet can’t tell you what’s wrong, so it’s up to you to spot the signs of summer pet allergies. Keep an eye out for:
- Excessive scratching or licking
- Red or inflamed skin
- Bald patches or hair loss
- Watery eyes or frequent sneezing
- Chewing at the paws or tail base
- Head shaking or recurring ear infections
These symptoms can also indicate other issues, such as skin infections or parasites, so it’s best to have your vet weigh in before assuming it’s allergies.
Allergy Treatment for Pets: What Are Your Options?
If your pet is battling seasonal allergies, don’t worry. There are several safe and effective options for pet allergy relief.
Depending on the severity and cause of the symptoms, your veterinarian might recommend:
- Medicated shampoos or topical sprays: These can soothe itchy, inflamed skin and help protect against secondary infections.
- Oral medications: Antihistamines or anti-itch medications may provide fast symptom relief.
- Allergy testing and immunotherapy: For chronic or severe allergies, pinpointing the allergen and building tolerance over time can be a game-changer.
- Flea control: Even a single bite can trigger a reaction in sensitive pets—regular prevention is essential.
- Dietary changes: Sometimes food sensitivities contribute to summer symptoms, and need to be addressed alongside environmental factors.
Allergy treatment for pets isn’t one-size-fits-all. The best plan depends on your pet’s history, symptoms, and lifestyle—and that’s where our veterinarians come in.
Pet Allergy Care at Home: How You Can Help
There are also plenty of ways you can support your pet’s comfort from home. Try these tips:
- Wipe paws after walks: This removes pollen and other allergens before they make it inside.
- Vacuum and dust regularly: Keeping indoor allergens under control helps everyone breathe easier.
- Bathe regularly with vet-approved products: This can remove surface irritants and help soothe the skin.
- Keep bedding and toys clean: Allergens can accumulate on soft surfaces your pet uses daily.
- Limit outdoor time during peak pollen hours: Early mornings and windy days tend to be the worst.
These simple steps can go a long way in keeping your pet more comfortable during allergy season—and they pair perfectly with professional care.
Georgia’s intense summer heat can be hazardous to pets. Read this blog post to learn how to prevent heatstroke.
Don’t Let Allergies Ruin Your Pet’s Summer
If you suspect your dog or cat is struggling with summer allergies, let our friendly team help. We’re here with expert pet allergy care and customized solutions for seasonal allergies in pets of all kinds. Call us at (404) 633‑6163 to schedule an appointment and get your pet back to enjoying the sunshine, with a lot less itching.