10 Tips for Managing Your Dog's Fall Allergies

Dog allergies in fall are just as common as with humans. Fall months spell cooler temperature and unpredictable weather. As the leaves fall and the winds rush in allergens swirl though the air and may be the cause of unnecessary suffering for your pup. Although the fall does not have the pollen and grass that bother many in spring, it has dying plants and wind, moisture, and the almighty mold which can reek havoc on your dog. Below are a few general to remedy dog allergies in fall and help keep your dog breathing free and easy through the winter!

1. Act immediately. Leaving your pet to scratch for a long period of time may result in a distressed skin condition and difficulty in treating the underlying allergy. Prolonged delay has a negative impact on its immune system health. Immediately submit your pet to the veterinarian for consultation on its condition. Religiously follow whatever recommendations the pet doctor has.
2. Keep them contained. If your dogs belong to allergy-prone breeds or exhibit signs of seasonal allergies, it's a good idea to keep them inside the house with closed windows and doors during the late mornings when pollen is at its peak. This should prevent them from exposure to allergens. Air conditioning or heating may also be used when necessary but air filtration must be monitored on a regular basis. Follow manufacturer’s instructions on the frequency of cleaning and changing the filters for both cooling and heating systems.
3. Keep a tidy house. This includes vacuuming rugs and furnishings. In addition, wash the beddings both for dogs and humans at least once a week.
4. Look for watery eyes. You can't help but notice that teary eyes of a suffering pooch. This is because your dog’s immune system is trying to flush the allergens out of the body. For red itchy eyes, eye drops may be needed to soothe the itching.
5. Landscape often. Cut the grass short and keep leaves raked often to minimize the spread of inhalant allergens.
6. Bathe frequently. Washing your pets more than normal can help remove the irritants from their coat and skin. Likewise, bathing will eliminate other bacteria, pet dander and dead skin. Ask your vet how often you should bathe your pup to avoid drying out the skin.
7. Keep warm. If your pooch prefers the great outdoors, make sure to bundle him up. Make sure to provide your dog with a warm and comfortable place to sleep to avoid getting hypothermia.
8. Watch their weight. Being overweight causes more stress to all the body systems, and may make the inflammation caused by allergens much more severe.
9. Go organic. Feed your dog with freshly prepared meals free of artificial colors and flavors. Make sure that the food is rich in protein, fat, fiber, grain, vitamins and minerals.
10. Filter the air. Having an air purifier in the house can do wonders as it helps relieve nasal irritations.