As the leaves change color and the weather grows cooler, many of us eagerly welcome the arrival of fall. However, for our furry companions, autumn can bring about a different set of challenges – allergies. Fall allergies in dogs can be just as troublesome as those experienced by humans. The changing season brings shifting allergens, and if you're a dog owner, it's essential to be aware of the common fall allergens, symptoms, and effective treatment options to keep your four-legged friend comfortable and healthy.
Common Reactions to Fall Allergies
Dogs can manifest their allergies in various ways, and it's essential to recognize the common reactions associated with allergens. Some of the conditions are linked to atopic dermatitis (skin allergies that are a reaction to their environment) and other allergies include:
Ear and Skin Infections:
Allergic reactions can weaken a dog's skin barrier, making it more susceptible to bacterial and yeast infections. These secondary infections can make your dog even more miserable. Ear infections are particularly common, leading to pain and more itching.
Hot Spots (Pyotraumatic Dermatitis):
Hot spots often start with a little itch from any cause, add some extra scratching, licking and they can quickly progress to severely inflamed areas of the skin. These are very painful and require prompt attention to prevent further complications.