If you were to ask a veterinarian, they would express their concerns about how dogs keep shuffling into their clinic. Their present predicament is tackling the increasing cases of allergies.
Some canines can’t stop scratching their ears, whereas others constantly chew their feet. These unsightly views make others back away in fear of contracting the allergy. It’s not uncommon to find veterinary dermatologists attend to 15 allergic pets or more in a day.
Spring can especially be a trying time, making pets ‘miserable.’ Some scratch so aggressively that their hairs fall out. Dog allergies are not unusual, but they have become a major concern in recent years.
What’s driving such an alarming epidemic? This article will discuss the rise in dog allergies, covering the causes and possible solutions for the problem.
Increase in Dog Allergies In and Out of Season
Allergies in dogs are among the most common reasons for veterinary appointments. Let’s look at the various types of allergic reactions a pooch may develop –
- Flea allergies – This problem is caused by fleas or ticks. The bite of just one or two fleas per week can make the affected dog itch. It’s usually the flea’s saliva that is believed to be the allergen.
- Seasonal or environmental allergies – Allergens of this type may exist in one’s home or backyard. We’re referring to dust mites, mold spores, pollen, and plant or animal fibers.
- Food allergies – An adverse reaction to food is the typical cause. While a protein source is usually responsible for food allergies, even grains could sometimes be the reason.
All three types of dog allergies are commonplace and may occur at any time (even the seasonal kind). Nevertheless, a disturbing rise in the number of allergic pets has been observed.
Trupanion, a pet insurance company, discovered a sharp 42% increase in allergy claims between 2019 and 2023. The highest number of claims were associated with dogs when compared to felines.
Possible Causes
Are allergies indeed more prevalent or has veterinary science become better at spotting them early on? Perhaps both may have a role to play.
Before exploring the possible drivers behind allergic pets, let’s clarify that some dogs are allergy magnets. The genetic factor contributes to frequent allergies among breeds like German Shepherds, French Bulldogs, and Labradors.
Even so, the reactions may look different for each breed. For instance, Labradors suffer from toe bumps whereas German Shepherds develop crusty flews (upper lips). Genes aside, what could be the reason behind a concerning rise in allergies in recent years? The following two are the possible causes –
Climate Change
This particular phenomenon has been a heated topic for decades, but it has only become more urgent than ever. For instance, 2024 was the warmest year on record, with greenhouse gases locking in more future heat.
Certain plants undergo longer blooming seasons due to climate change. This increases the pollen count in any given volume of air.
Also, the high humidity levels foster mold growth, which is another common allergen. Essentially, climate change has extended or prolonged the allergy season.
A Lack of Early Exposure to Dirt
Most of the recent allergy cases are being reported in urban environments. This is linked to the fact that many dogs don’t get the early exposure to dirt and germs that they should have.
Even human infants are said to develop immunity to allergens due to early exposure. The same is true for our canine friends. Dogs in rural environments, who regularly play outside, and have contact with farm animals are less likely to develop allergies.
Homeowners in the past built a dog house in the backyard for their pooch to play. Today, many pooches spend most of their time indoors, which has backfired.
Allergy Symptoms to Be Aware Of
As the allergy season has prolonged, pet parents need to be on their guard. Listed below are the most common allergy symptoms to look out for –
- Skin issues like a rash, itchiness, redness, patches of missing fur, and foul smell
- Ear problems such as excessive scratching and chronic infections
- Frequent sneezing or coughing
- Digestive upset leading to vomiting or diarrhea
- Excessive licking of paws
- Swelling of the face, lips, eyelids, or earflaps
The American Kennel Club shares that these symptoms may overlap those of other conditions. It is best to consult with a veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis.
Treatment Options and Preventative Measures
If allergies have increased, even treatment options have advanced. For instance, Apoquel is a prescription medication that is often used as a quick itch relief (effective within 4 hours).
Moreover, the allergic condition can be controlled within 24 hours. According to PetRx, pet parents can use the said medication for short-term relief or long-term maintenance. Additionally, preventative measures cannot take a backseat. They must include the following:
Identify Allergen Sources and Minimize Exposure
This strategy involves nipping the problem in its bud. For example, limit outdoor time during allergy season to protect against pollen.
In a similar manner, vacuum and dust your home regularly to prevent exposure to dust mites. Address any moisture or ventilation issues to impede mold formation.
Make Dietary Changes
If your pooch is prone to food allergies, feed them a hypoallergenic diet after veterinary consultation. The doctor will recommend this diet based on potential allergen risks.
Besides the food, even the treats should be allergen-free. You can even choose a rotational diet to avoid digestive upset.
Maintain a Clean Environment
Start with a vet-recommended flea prevention product to keep your pooch safe. Also, clean all areas where your pooch spends most of their time.
Wash your dog’s bedding periodically and use a HEPA air purifier. The latter will remove any airborne allergens in the room.
Groom Your Pooch Properly
Allergens can be quite sneaky, which means they must be tackled early on. You should bathe your pet thoroughly once every week. Use a pet-friendly shampoo to remove any allergens in their fur.
After every walk, wipe your dog’s paws with a clean cloth to remove pollen or dust mites. Lastly, brush your fur baby’s body regularly to remove any loose dander.
The sad reality is one in five dogs grapple with some type of allergy. They are most common among dogs who are older than six months of age.
Although it’s relatively rare for our pets to develop allergies sooner than that, there’s no telling given the rising heat levels. Do everything in your power to protect dear Marley from allergic reactions.
If you suspect an issue, book a vet appointment at the earliest. Timely intervention and proper medication are effective against all kinds of allergies, seasonal or otherwise.
