Are you one of the approximately 50 million people that suffer from seasonal allergies? If so, then you know all too well how miserable allergies can be. Did you know that your dog may be suffering right along with you? According to some estimates, at least 10% of dogs suffer from seasonal allergies and this number continues to increase each year. What are some steps that you can take as a pet owner to help reduce your dog’s allergies?
Common Symptoms
How can you tell if your pet is suffering from seasonal allergies? Here are a few common signs:
- Sneezing
- Coughing
- Change in fur color
- Loss of fur
- Eye or nasal discharge
- Excessive licking, chewing or scratching of body parts
Some breeds of dogs are more prone to allergies than others. These breeds include:
- Beagles
- Boxers
- Bulldogs
- Dalmations
- Irish Setters
- Retreivers
- Shepherds
- Terriers
If your dog is suffering from any of the above noted symptoms, you are not without hope. Here are a few simple tips you can start implementing today.
How to Combat Allergies
There are several simple steps you can take to help reduce the risk of allergy symptoms:
Keep Windows and Doors Closed
With fall comes a wide variety of allergens floating in the air. Keeping your windows and doors closed will minimize points of access for these allergens.
Regular Baths
Bathing your dog with a hypoallergenic shampoo every 2-3 weeks comes with multiple benefits. It will remove allergens as well as moisturize their skin while washing off dirt and bacteria.
Wipe Their Paws
When outdoors, your dog’s paws come into contact with all types of allergens, chemicals and more. Wiping your pet’s paws each time they come in from the outdoors will lessen the contaminants they carry into your home and into their beds. You can take this a step further and actually soak your pet’s paws at the end of each day to more thoroughly remove allergens.
Professionally Clean Carpet & Upholstery
Vacuuming your carpet and upholstery with a HEPA filter vacuum every 5-7 days will go a long way to reducing allergens in your home. However, vacuuming alone will not fully remove lingering allergens and dirt. For this, you will need professional carpet and upholstery cleaning from the experts at Preferred Carpet Care in Redding.
If your pet is still suffering from allergies after taking the above steps, talk to your veterinarian about possible adjustments to your dog’s diet and supplements as well as medical treatment options including injections and sublingual medicine for more severe cases.
The team at Preferred Carpet Care of Redding cares about the health of you and your family -and that includes your pets! Contact us today to schedule carpet and upholstery cleaning. We will help you get on the road to a healthy household for the fall season!