Can Dogs Get Hay Fever? YES!!

Hay Fever, also known as Atopic Dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition associated with allergies. Although your four-legged friend may not need tissues this spring, hay fever may still affect them. Being informed about this condition, its signs, its causes, and knowing when to go to the vet, can go a long way in ensuring your beloved pet leads a happy, healthy life, and keeps a spring in their step!

What are the signs?

Intense itching – leading to scratching, rubbing and biting of the paws, belly, body, ears and bottom

Redness, hair loss, and sores affecting the ears, wrists, ankles, face, underarms, groin, around the eyes, in between the toes, and the area around the anus.

It can cause secondary infections in the skin form your dog trying to relieve the itching with licking, chewing and rubbing the itchy spots too much.

These symptoms might occur seasonally at first but can progress to being year-round as the dog ages.

 What are the causes?

Atopic dermatitis in dogs is usually caused by an allergic reaction to things in their environment. These can include things like pollen, dust mites, moulds, or even certain types of food. This allergy leads to an overactive immune system, resulting in inflammation and itching.

In some cases, genetics may play a role, as certain breeds are more susceptible to this condition. These include Staffies, Bulldogs,Boxers, Retrievers, Labradors, small white fluffy dogs, Beagles and Dalmatians among others.

Atopic dermatitis is not caused by fleas, but dogs with this condition could have a more severe reaction to flea bites, which may worsen the signs. 

Can theVet Help?

It is important to recognise that any persistent itching or pronounced changes in your dog's skin should be seen by a vet. While occasional scratching is normal dog behaviour, excessive scratching or any of the other symptoms mentioned above requires fast attention.

As a rule of thumb, if your dog’s symptoms persist for more than a week, it’s time to schedule a vet visit. The sooner atopic dermatitis is diagnosed, the quicker a treatment plan can be implemented, and the better your pet's chances are of finding relief.

 Did you know that long term scratching and chewing can lead to secondary infections, as bacteria and yeasts take advantage of the skin damage to penetrate the skin's defences. If you notice any signs of a secondary infection such as pus, redness, swelling, foul odour, or a green colour change to the fur, seek veterinary help ASAP.

Is there treatment?

Good News, Yes! Your vet will find the best treatment option for your furry pal. It may be a diet change, a shampoo/conditioning treatment,injections, or medication that you can give at home. The key to finding the right treatment is finding the right diagnosis.