While the end of the winter season leaves many of us anticipating warm days on the beach and exchanging our coats and snow boots for tank tops and sandals, it also leaves just as many scrambling for the tissue box and every pack of Claritin that we can get our hands on.

Allergy season is upon us, and we’ve already started experiencing the sniffles, coughing, and the bothersome chore of washing our cars every week thanks to all the airborne pollen.

Millions of people all over the world are affected by the spring allergy season, but did you know your dogs can experience the same symptoms?

While you’re finding ways to keep those spring allergies at bay, you’ll also want to be aware of allergies in dogs and how you can keep your pets feeling their best this season.

Your Dog and Seasonal Allergies

According to the testimonies of several vets, including certified pet dermatologist Dr. Nicole Eckholm, dogs can be affected by allergies, just like their owners.

Though symptoms can occur during any season, the spring seems to inflict more cases of allergies in dogs than summer, fall, or winter.

What Causes Allergies in Dogs?

Great question! The answer is actually quite simple. It’s usually the same things that set off allergies in people.

If you and your dog are taking a walk and come across some ryegrass or ragweed, for example, you may notice that you’ll start to sniffle and your pup will begin to scratch themselves excessively shortly after.

The amount of time it takes for your pet to start displaying symptoms, or even show any signs of allergies at all, varies from dog to dog. While one pet may get allergies this season, it doesn’t necessarily mean the other will.

It is, however, important to know when they’re struggling with seasonal allergies so you can restore their comfort and overall well-being.

Symptoms of Dog Allergies

The symptoms of dog allergies are also very similar to what we experience each spring. The only difference is that your dog may display more external symptoms, such as rashes or excessive itching.

If your pet is suffering from allergies, whether it be seasonal or food-related, you may begin to notice other indicators such as:

• Itchy ears or chronic ear infections
• Swelling of the face, ears, eyelids, or ears
• Sneezing
• Constant Licking
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

While all of these symptoms point towards allergies, they could also be the cause of something completely different that requires immediate attention. If you find that any of these symptoms begin to escalate, call your vet and schedule an appointment immediately.

3 Home Remedies for Dog Allergies

There are many kinds of medications and vaccines that your vet can give you if your dog is experiencing severe cases of allergies. While these are fine and dandy, and necessary if your pet’s case of allergies is extreme enough, I’m all about the natural stuff!

Here are a few simple ways you can ease the symptoms of allergies in your dog that will leave him/her feeling much better. Plus, it could save you a costly trip to the vet!

1. Give Your Dog a Bath

Simple, yet helpful! Most of the time, minor cases of allergies in dogs can be solved with a good bath.

It’s an easy way to rinse allergens away and help soothe your pup’s itchy or irritated skin. For even better results, add a cup of uncooked oats into the bath. They will help form a protective film on the skin that will prevent it from drying or causing further irritation.

*Quick Note* Don’t use oatmeal if your dog has a yeast infection! The carbohydrates in oats will only cause the yeast to thrive.

2. Foot Rinse

These are especially helpful if you suspect your pet’s allergies are caused by something outside. They may be tracking the allergens inside the house after your walks and spreading them in every room he/she visits.

To prevent this, all you have to do is a quick rinse of your pup’s paws in the kitchen sink, tub, or shower (whatever works best for you). You can also use a little bit of apple cider vinegar to help relieve rashes and excessive itchiness in their paws.

3. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is the holy grail of natural remedies for both humans and dogs! You can use it topically on your pet’s rashes and irritated skin to restore moisture and improve the texture of his/her coat.

Since it’s also one of the healthiest human foods for dogs, you can add a teaspoon to your dog’s food every day to help suppress inflammatory responses related to allergies in dogs.

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Whether you’re lounging at home or on the road to your next dog-friendly destination, now you’ll always be ready to battle your dog’s allergies and keep them healthy all season long!

Does your pet have allergies? Is there anything you recommend to other pet parents with the same issue? Share your thoughts in the comments! 

While you’re here, don’t forget to check out even more pet health and safety tips that you can use while traveling with your pets!

Featured Photo Credit: Kira-Yan/Getty Images