Veterinarian Lists Top 10 Dog Allergens Pet Parents Should Be Aware Of
If you suffer from allergies, you know how terrible they can make you feel and how annoying they can be to deal with. Same goes with our pets who have allergies, and with allergy season here you might notice that they are getting worse for you and your dogs.
Dr. Adam Christman is a vet who shares a ton of helpful advice on his social media channels. He shared a video on Wednesday, April 17th and listed the top 10 dog allergens to be aware of. Watch on as he counts them down...some of them might surprise you!
Dr. Christman's advice about controlling the controllable is great advice! I had a sneaking suspicion that Number One would be fleas and ticks, so that one wasn't surprising but a few of the others were. We have a puppy and we are trying to figure out what she's allergic to (we've ruled out food allergies), so I know how frustrating it can be to deal with pet allergies. When we took her to the vet she said it's probably fleas and even though we can't see them it doesn't mean they're not there.
A lot of commenters asked questions of the doctor, but my favorite comment came from @fancypants belle who said, "@Good Morning America do you have Dr. Adam on your radar? Watch this video! He could do a seasonal segment! Everyone needs access to his info!" I couldn't agree more!
Related: Vet Lists Most Common Dog Breeds Who Suffer From Environmental Allergies
Home Remedies for Your Dogs Allergies
If you have an itchy dog, you don't have to run straight to the vet. There are some things that you can try at home first, and some of them work quite well. I am not a vet and cannot offer medical advice, but the first thing my vet told me are some of the over-the-counter human allergy pills that can be given to dogs. It's based on weight, so you can call your vet and ask which would work for your pup. It's made a difference for us.
These doggy breath and allergy mints are a yummy treat your dog will love, and it's cut down on my dog's itching. Apple cider vinegar spray is also worth a shot, "Consider putting ACV in a spray bottle, diluting it with water, and spraying it on the itchy spots a couple of times a day." My vet also recommended wiping down paws when my pup comes back inside to remove allergens like grass, pollen, etc.
Skip certain household cleaners. "Your dog might have an allergy to the detergent you use to clean their bed and blankets or even the product you use to clean your carpet. Carpet Fresh, Lysol spray, or any yard sprays for bugs might also be the cause of itching. Wash bedding in just bleach. Don't use soap or fabric softeners." It might take a while to find out what the irritants are but once you do, you'll be giving instant relief to your dog.
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