Humans suffer from allergies, but how do you think our beloved dogs feel about them? At least we can visit the pharmacy and get OTC recommendations to relieve our nasty symptoms. Instead, they have to deal with constant itchiness, hair loss, dry skin, and red spots. And because they can’t speak up and tell us what’s wrong, we must pay attention and notice their symptoms. If your pup is exhibiting allergy symptoms, try some of these treatment options.
Antihistamines
Over-the-counter antihistamines like Benadryl (generic name diphenhydramine) are safe for dogs and can alleviate allergies. The recommended dosage is 1 mg per pound of body weight. For example, if your pup is 10 pounds, you should give them one 10 mg capsule by mouth for relief. Keep in mind that Benadryl may make your dog sleepy, so don’t go over the dosage. We suggest speaking to your veterinarian before using antihistamines, as a different brand or generic name may work better for different breeds.
Baths
Dry, itchy skin is one of the most common signs of seasonal allergies in dogs. If yours shows signs, consider getting them into the bath ASAP. Wash their fur gently with a hypoallergenic, anti-itch shampoo with soothing ingredients like oatmeal or aloe to calm the irritation.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Some dogs respond well to omega-3 supplementation. If you’re considering giving fish or krill oil to your pup, speak with your veterinarian first to see if they are a good candidate. Fish oil can reduce inflammation, strengthen and soften the coat, and create a strong barrier against allergies.
Honey
If you can purchase local honey, do so. Local honey is made from the same pollen that causes seasonal allergies, meaning ingesting it could make your dog less reactive to pollen. If there’s a chance of less irritating symptoms, why not take it? Especially considering it’s a sweet treat that your pup will lick up in no time.
Allergy Shots
If all other suggestions fail, consider talking to your vet about allergy shots. Instead of giving your dog OTC meds every day, you can sit back and relax and let the shot work its magic. Allergy shots are especially recommended if your furry friend has environmental allergies, as these are progressive and can worsen over time.