Sniffles, Sneezes & Scratches: Is Your Dog Suffering from Seasonal Allergies?

Summer is in full swing! The flowers are blooming, the birds are singing, and your dog... is scratching like they've entered an Olympic itch-scratching competition.

While we humans reach for the tissues and antihistamines, our four-legged friends can also suffer from seasonal allergies.

Wait... Dogs Get Hay Fever Too?

Believe it or not, they do!

Although dogs don't always get the classic runny nose we associate with hay fever; pollen, grass, mould, and other seasonal allergens can make them feel pretty miserable. Instead of sneezing their way through spring, dogs are more likely to show it through their skin.

Signs Your Dog Might Have Seasonal Allergies:

- Excessive scratching, licking, or chewing

- Red, irritated skin

- Paw licking (especially after walks)

- Ear infections or frequent head shaking

- Watery eyes

- Sneezing (yes, sometimes!)

Why Does It Seem Worse After Walks?

Think of your dog's coat as nature's Velcro. Every exciting dash through long grass or joyful roll in the park can bring home an invisible collection of pollen.

Your dog might think they've had the best walk ever. Their skin might politely disagree.

Here are a few easy tips to help:

🐾 Wipe their paws and coat after walks to remove pollen.

🐾 Wash bedding regularly to reduce allergens indoors.

🐾 Keep up with flea prevention, flea bites can make itchy skin even worse.

🐾 If symptoms persist, speak to your vet. They can recommend treatments to help your dog feel much more comfortable.

Can Dogs Still Come to Daycare?

Absolutely! We love welcoming happy, healthy dogs all year round.

If your pup has seasonal allergies, just let us know. We'll keep an eye on them throughout the day and make sure they're comfortable while they enjoy playtime with their furry friends.

Of course, if your dog is feeling particularly uncomfortable or has open sores from scratching, it's always best to check with your vet before bringing them in.

Seasonal allergies can be annoying, but they don't have to spoil your dog's fun.

With a little extra care, your pup can get back to doing what they do best: zooming around the garden, making new friends, chasing absolutely nothing, and convincing everyone they're starving five minutes after breakfast.

If you have any questions about your dog's comfort while they're with us, we're always happy to help. After all, every dog deserves a scratch behind the ears, just preferably not because they're itchy!