How Pollen Season Impacts Your Pets?

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The pollen season begins when the climate starts to get warmer. If you suffer from pollen allergies, you will know how irritating it is. Even if you don’t suffer from pollen allergies, you would have come across people who are and you can see how much they dread it. Don’t be quick to assume that only humans are prone to pollen allergies as even pets are vulnerable to them.

Unlike us, they won’t be constantly sneezing or coughing when they are allergic to pollen. Pets resort to scratching, biting, or licking themselves more than usual because the pollen would have fallen on their ears, the pads on their paws, and their fur. The pollen gets absorbed by the skin and in order to alleviate themselves, they scratch, bite, or lick the affected areas which will lead to scab formation, ear infections, and hair loss if left unchecked. Here is a list of symptoms to look out for which will tell you when your dog is suffering from pollen allergy.

• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Itchy and runny eyes
• Red, itchy, scabbed, or moist skin
• The base of the tail is itchy
• Swollen paws/ Paw chewing

They also may tend to rub themselves against floors, walls, or furniture to alleviate the itch. It's normal for pets to behave this way but if you notice that they tend to be lethargic or if they excessively indulge in these activities, your dog may be suffering from pollen allergy.

You can follow these simple steps to effectively fight against pollen allergy.

• Whenever you go for a walk with your dog, make it a point to wipe their paws and their coat with a damp cloth, baby wipes, or any other pet wipe to remove any pollen that is clinging on to their fur and paws.
• You need to keep your dog well groomed for the pollen season. If your dog has long hair, visit the vet to get it trimmed. Give them baths on a weekly basis and brush their coat every day. You can use specific soaps, shampoos, and conditioner to remove any lingering pollen.
• Omega-3 fatty acids are extremely useful for pets. Add them into their diet as it will decrease inflammation throughout the body. You can also use coconut oil as it reduces production of yeast.
• Clean the beds and surfaces that your pet comes in contact with on a regular basis. Even if you take all the preventive measures to keep your pet healthy, your pet might still fall sick as pollen easily sticks onto such surfaces.

If your pet is suffering from severe pollen allergy, visit the vet for consultation as there are a variety of medicines available. Keep your pet healthy by following the above steps.