Warmer temperatures during the spring, summer, and fall often result in seasonal sensitivities for many. Dogs, like their owners, can also suffer during these times of the year. Common seasonal sensitivities include:
- pollens
- grasses
- weeds
- molds
- fungi
- saliva from fleas
What Causes a Sensitivity?
A sensitivity is caused by a response from the immune system. The immune system perceives the sensitivity as an invader, much as it would a virus, bacteria, and so forth. The immune system responds to a sensitivity by releasing histamines in the body. The release of histamines can create inflammation, itching, and swelling. It is the body’s inflammation that causes the noticeable signs of a sensitivity. More information can be found here.
Signs of Seasonal Sensitivities in Dogs
If your dog is displaying any of the following, seasonal sensitivities may be the culprit:
- scratching
- biting
- hair loss (from scratching)
- flaky skin
- licking
- skin issues
- shaking of the head
- rubbing
- watery eyes
- runny nose
- sneezing
- congestion (respiratory)
- ear infections
- dirty/smelly ears
How to Help a Dog with Seasonal Sensitivities
Relief through Oral Supplementation (can put over dog’s food):
- Essential fatty acids (fish oil supplement)
- Coconut oil
- Turmeric (herbal supplement)
- Nettle (herbal supplement)
- Butterbur (herbal supplement)
- Cat’s claw (herbal supplement)
- Quercetin coupled with the proteolytic enzymes bromelain and papain to increase absorption
- Vitamin C
Topical Relief:
- Frequent baths
- Frequent paw soaks (solution of half ACV and half water)
- Eye rinsing (find an eye rinse product specifically for dogs)
- Cleaning around the eyes with colloidal silver (apply colloidal silver to a cotton ball, avoid getting the colloidal silver in the eyes)
- Cleaning specific rash-like or raw areas of the skin with an equal solution of ACV and water
Other Things to Consider:
- Do not vaccinate during an immune response
- Vacuum carpet and rugs frequently
- Wash bedding frequently that your dog uses
- Purify the air in your home with an air filter
- Close windows if possible to keep pollens from entering the home
To gain more knowledge and understanding of your dog’s seasonal and/or food sensitivities, check out the PetMedella Sensitivity Scan! PetMedella scans for 350 different food and environmental sensitivities that may be stressing your pet!
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Disclaimer: These services are designed for educational purposes only and are not intended to serve as medical advice. The information provided on this site and in reports should not be used for diagnosing or treating any health problem or disease. It is not a substitute for professional care. If you have or suspect you may have a health problem or need medical attention, you should consult your healthcare provider. PetMedella is not responsible for the interpretation of results by any outside affiliates, practitioners or health coaches using this test.