Allergies can affect pets, too

Little nubs of green and delicate blossoms give new life to bare tree limbs, brown begins to take on a greenish hue as life creeps through in the form of new blades of grass and splashes of color are appearing in flowerbeds — all telltale signs that spring is around the corner.

With it comes sneezing, itchy eyes, scratchy throats and stuffy noses.

The causes can probably be found in the white petals swirling around in the air and yellow powder dusting vehicles. Or it could come down to the fine grains of New Mexico terra that pile in corners and coat everything in sight.

And the greatest credit probably goes to the winds of spring that make sure these, and all kinds of lovely little particulates, make their way through every gap, crack, crevice, and without fail, into the respiratory system.

It’s that time of year when folks find out if, or get a reminder of the fact, they do indeed suffer seasonal allergies, a misery happily forgotten during the off-season.

As only irony would have it, pollen, dust and all the other catalysts romp freely in the very place people want to be after a cagey winter indoors and most will suck it up, so to speak, just to get back outside.

Us humans usually know if we’re susceptible to seasonal allergies and find ways to deal with it.

What we may not always realize, however, is our pets are just as susceptible to seasonal allergies and may very well be suffering right alongside us. But pet symptoms could be completely different.

Unfortunately, the differences in the ways critters show allergies from the common symptoms humans experience can result in confusion and delay or prevent them getting the relief they need.

Pets can be allergic to tree pollen and all the other airborne or skin-contact allergens that plague their people, but often when we sneeze, they scratch.

Dogs begin demonstrating discomfort by rubbing or licking, particularly the face, side, groin and feet. With time, red, irritated skin and patches of missing hair and scabbing where they have licked or chewed start to show.

Repeat ear infections are another way a dog’s seasonal allergies will surface. Symptoms include redness and swelling, scratching, rubbing and head shaking. Ear infections are also often accompanied by discharge and/or an unpleasant odor.

While they too will begin itching and scratching, particularly on the face and at the base of the tail, much like humans, cats tend to experience more respiratory issues from allergens, developing coughs, sneezing, wheezing, snoring, and may have itchy, watery eyes.

Limiting exposure to environmental causes — by reducing time outdoors and frequent bathing to remove irritants from the skin and fur — is the first and most important step toward relief from seasonal allergies.

When a pet does come in from being outdoors, wipe their feet and fur with a damp cloth to remove particulates and launder their bedding regularly.

If a pet’s symptoms from allergies persist or seem to worsen, a trip to the vet is in order. The vet can help identify what’s causing the problems, treat symptoms, strategize ways to address triggers and help keep your critter happy and healthy during allergy season.

One way or another — whether it means taking precautions, finding a medical solution, or both — put an end to the sneezing and scratching, and enjoy spring with the critters.

Sharna Johnson is always searching for ponies. You can reach her at:

[email protected]