Do you know or suspect that your dog has allergies? If so, you’re not alone. As many as one in five dogs are afflicted with allergies. A Dallas, GA vet lists some of the most common culprits below.
Fumes
Our canine pals have very sensitive noses. Fido can detect scents in such small amounts as one part per trillion. That’s over 100,000 times stronger than what our noses can pick up! Therefore, it’s not really surprising that strong fumes can bother your furry friend. Things like cigarette smoke, vapors, aerosols, and chemical smells can all cause reactions.
Plants
Trees, plants, grass, and leaves are all common allergens for both people and pups. Pollen is another common culprit. These types of allergens may cause symptoms such as watery or red eyes, sneezing, and itchies. As with people, these types of allergies often spike in spring and fall.
Bugs
Fido can also react to insect bites. Flea bites are a common one, but they aren’t the only possibility. Some dogs also react to bee stings. An unfortunate side effect of that one is that it won’t necessarily teach Fido to stop eating bees. It may even make him more determined!
Food
Food allergies can be tricky with pets, as it can be hard to narrow down just what your furry buddy is reacting to. Fido may be allergic to a specific protein source, such as fish or chicken. Beef, dairy, egg, lamb, soy, turkey, pork, and rabbit are also common allergens. Filler ingredients, such as wheat and corn, may also not agree with your pup. If food allergies are suspected, your vet may recommend putting your four-legged pal on a very bland, restricted diet for a while. Once symptoms have abated, you can start reintroducing things one by one, and seeing what causes reactions.
Baths
Does your pup run and hide when he hears the word Bath? Some of those doggy theatrics may actually be warranted. Believe it or not, yes, Fido actually can be allergic to baths … or at least, to his shampoo. If you know or suspect that your pooch has allergies, only use unscented, hypoallergenic shampoos and detergents on your canine buddy and his things.
If you want to learn more about allergies in dogs, or if you think your pet may be afflicted, contact us, your Dallas, GA pet hospital, today!
