Tips On Spotting & Treating Dog Allergies

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- Allergy season is here: Sniffles, sneezing and runny, itchy eyes. But it's not just humans suffering. Our dogs are also prone to allergies.

The University of Minnesota Veterinary dermatology team sees at least a dog a day with allergies.

Sandra Koch, an assistant clinical specialist in veterinary dermatology, says allergies are the most common problem in dogs.

Just like humans, seasonal allergies strike most often for dogs.

"Pollens from trees grasses and weeds, house dust mites and also molds -- just like in people," Koch said.

While humans get a runny nose, watery eyes, and more as symptoms, dogs only get one symptom: scratching. Left untreated, scratching can cause baldness, sores and infection.

"As soon as you notice your pet itching, it's important to bring it to your veterinarian," Koch said.

Allergies never go away, so the sooner the dog can get treated, the better.

"There isn't one way to treat allergies, it's not one size fits all, just like us," Koch said.

Some dogs have serious allergies that require steroids, but the more common treatments will likely sound familiar: antihistamines, medicated shampoos and even fish oil can help.

When the pollen counts are high, the easiest thing to do is to simply keep your pet inside.

NOTES: Dogs are more likely to have allergies then cats. Sometimes, the pets' food can contribute to allergies, too.