Attimore Veterinary Group Wheathampstead helps local owners spot the unusual signs of hay fever in pets
Local vet reminds pet owners to be alert to the signs of skin irritation.
Spring is finally in the air which means rising pollen levels, but many pet owners don’t realise their pets can suffer from hay fever too.
Attimore Veterinary Group in Wheathampstead is encouraging local pet owners to keep an eye out for skin irritation and other lesser-known signs of hay fever in dogs, which are different from humans.
The most common symptom of hay fever in dogs is itchy skin. If you notice your dog scratching more than usual, nibbling at their paws, rubbing their face along the carpet, or developing flaky, red patches of skin, it could be a sign they’re reacting to pollen in the air.
Pollen isn’t the only culprit, as skin irritation can also be caused by other allergies, parasites, or infections. Your vet can help figure out what’s really going on.
During a consultation, your vet will ask lots of questions about your pet’s lifestyle, examine your dog’s skin, and may recommend appropriate tests to help determine the cause. Once the cause is clear, they can discuss a range of treatments - from topical creams, sprays and soothing shampoos to medication or immunotherapy. You should always seek advice from your vet before giving your dog medication such as antihistamines, as some are toxic to dogs.
There are also small changes you can make to your daily routine to help reduce your dog’s hay fever symptoms. Try walking early in the morning or late in the evening when pollen counts are lower, giving fur a gentle wipe or rinse after walks, washing bedding and vacuuming regularly, and using an air filter at home.
Rebecca McConochie, Head Vet at Attimore Veterinary Group - Wheathampstead, says, “Spring should be a fun season for our pets, not an itchy one. While dogs don’t show hay fever in the same way that we do, those little signs like nibbling paws or scratching can tell us a lot. The sooner we spot it, the sooner we can help them feel comfortable again.”
If you have any concerns about your pet’s health or wellbeing, contact Attimore Veterinary Group - Wheathampstead or visit www.cvsvets.com to book an appointment.