Seasonal allergies in dogs are a specific type of hypersensitivity of the body that occurs during certain times of the year. It most often occurs in the spring and early summer when there is a large amount of pollen from trees, grasses and weeds in the air. Unlike food allergies or reactions to flea bites, seasonal allergies have a clear time frame and disappear or subside after the blooming season is over.

However, seasonal allergies can also occur in the fall. At this time, new irritants appear: pollen of late-blooming weeds (ragweed, mugwort, ragweed), mold spores on wet fallen leaves and dust mites, which become active in the premises with the beginning of the heating season. This is why symptoms can become more acute again even after the summer.

Distinguishing it from other types of allergies and diseases

Food allergies manifest themselves regardless of the season and are associated with specific foods. Reaction to flea bites is usually accompanied by localized itching and inflammation at the bite sites. Seasonal allergies are always cyclical – symptoms occur at certain times of the year (spring, summer or fall) and then disappear. This is the key difference that helps to distinguish it from other problems.

Signs of allergies

  • Severe itching and redness of the skin

  • Hair loss and dermatitis

  • Tearing and red eyes

  • Sneezing and runny nose

  • Tendency to ear infections

Symptoms can range from mild to very severe, depending on the dog’s sensitivity and the amount of allergen in the environment.

Treatment methods

Treatment for seasonal allergies in dogs is always complex and requires several important approaches:

  • Avoiding contact with allergens
    After every walk, it is advisable to wash the dog’s paws and coat to wash away pollen and dust. During periods of active blooming, it is better to walk in the morning or evening, when the concentration of allergens in the air is lower. Tall grasses and areas with lots of weeds should also be avoided.

  • Drug therapy
    Most often antihistamines are used, which reduce itching, tearing and sneezing. Medications should be selected by a veterinarian, taking into account the weight, condition and general health features of the dog.

  • Special diet and immune support
    Foods high in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids help reduce inflammation and improve skin and coat health. Hypoallergenic diets are sometimes prescribed to desensitize the body.

  • Topical treatment
    Special dog shampoos with soothing and anti-inflammatory properties are used to reduce itching and skin irritation. Ear drops to prevent otitis media and eye drops to relieve redness are also important.

  • Serious cases
    If symptoms are very severe and not relieved by standard methods, the veterinarian may prescribe corticosteroids to quickly relieve inflammation or specific immunotherapy to gradually desensitize the body to a particular allergen.

Use of loratadine in the treatment of allergic dogs

Loratadine is a second-generation antihistamine drug often used in veterinary medicine to reduce itching, sneezing, lacrimation and other manifestations of allergies. It is safe and has a long-lasting effect, but it should only be given after consultation with a veterinarian. The dosage depends on the weight of the dog, and the drug itself does not cure allergies completely, but significantly alleviates symptoms and improves the quality of life of the pet.

Conclusion
Seasonal allergies in dogs can appear not only in the spring or summer, but also in the fall due to weed pollen, mold and dust mites. Proper diagnosis, comprehensive treatment and the use of antihistamines such as loratadine can keep symptoms under control and ensure a comfortable life for your pet.