The spring and summer seasons can bring out allergies in you and your pet. While you sniffle and sneeze with allergies, you may notice that your pet does not experience the same symptoms. Instead, pets experience allergy signs through their skin rather than their respiratory system. Your pet may have an allergy if they exhibit any of these five signs. 

#1: Chronic itchiness

Itchiness (i.e., pruritis) is the most common allergy sign in pets. Allergen exposure causes your pet’s body to release histamine, which can lead to red, itchy skin. As your pet scratches, digs, and licks their skin, the already-weakened barrier is further compromised, and secondary infections often result. Skin infections cause further discomfort, which can trigger a frustrating itch-scratch cycle. 

#2: Recurrent ear infections

Does your dog repeatedly experience red, itchy ears that often have a distinct odor? Bacteria or yeast-derived ear infections are another common allergy sign and can cause significant discomfort for your pet. 

#3: Anal gland issues

Your pet’s anal glands are lined with skin tissue, which means they can also be affected by allergies. Pets with inflamed anal glands may scoot across the floor, or bite and lick at the area under their tail, to soothe the itching. If the inflammation is not treated, a pet’s anal glands may become impacted and develop an abscess, which can rupture through the surrounding skin.

#4: Red, raw paws

Many dogs with allergies experience itchy feet and bite at or lick their paws incessantly. Although it is unlikely that you will miss the tell-tale feet-licking, you can also tell your dog has been digging at their feet by saliva staining. When saliva on light-colored fur is exposed to the air, it turns brown, leaving your pet with rust-tinged feet. 

#5: Hot spots

A hot spot is a red, raw, hairless area of infection that is intensely itchy. Unfortunately, itching causes further skin damage, but your pet cannot resist biting and licking the uncomfortable spot. Hot spots often seep a yellowish liquid that may form a crust over the raw skin and clump in the surrounding fur. 

Pet allergies can be frustrating, but help is here! Give us a call to discuss your pet’s allergies and how we can help bring them the relief they need.