Out my sneezes, now my itches!

Certainly; “It’s been a long cold lonely winter” (the Beatles), but a new spring season is finally peaking though.  

With spring comes new growth, new life, grasses, pollens and plants… and for those of us with skin allergies - the “itches”.

Dogs and cats suffer from skin allergies just like us.  Think of conditions like hay fever and eczema.  Some of the triggers result from direct contact with allergens (rolling in the grass, brushing through plants in the garden), and some occur from inhaling microscopic airborne particles or pollens.  The result is an overreaction by the body which sets off a cycle of histamine release and inflammation in the skin, with intense itchiness, scratching, and red irritated skin which is then prone to infection.

How can we help?   

For some animals, containment indoors (to reduce the exposure to allergens) is an option.  For most dogs, this is impossible.  You could reduce the direct contact with grasses by walking your dog on paths only, or consider applying a barrier cream (such as sorbolene) or putting booties on their feet before you go out.   After a walk, wipe down the hair coat and feet with a damp cloth to remove pollens and grass particles, and apply a soothing dog conditioning oatmeal based or medicated lotion.  For atopy or allergies associated with inhaled allergens, you may need to check in with the vet for medication.  It is still important to keep the skin healthy, with good nutrition, parasite control (for fleas, mites, ticks), and soothing conditioners, and not over-bathing as shampoos can strip the natural oils from the hair coat.

Get a spring in your step and enjoy the new season, but give your pet’s skin some attention if the itches take hold, as early intervention usually gives better relief.

Dr Caitlin Horwood