The arrival of spring brings sneezing and watery eyes for many humans, but what about your pet? Pets have allergies, too, and since they cannot tell us what is going on, it’s important to know the symptoms and ways you can help your pet feel his or her best.
Pets may experience seasonal and environmental allergies.
Here are some allergy symptoms:
• Itching
• Chewing
• Licking
• Redness
• “Hot spots”
If your pet is scratching, chewing and/or licking excessively, you may be dealing with a skin allergy. These often appear certain times of the year and can cause redness or hot spots.
Pets can be allergic to pollen and also household allergens, like dust. Keeping carpets and linens clean help your pet, too.
What can you do if you do find your beloved pet suffering with allergies?
There are many ways to reduce or eliminate symptoms. We suggest the following holistic approach:
Use Coconut Oil
This gem contains many of the same benefits for your pet that humans experience. You can use coconut oil on skin and paws to reduce itchiness and heal hot spots. Coconut oil can be given internally also. It can be mixed with your pet’s food. A teaspoon for every 10 pounds of weight is a good rule.
Be Careful with Food Choices
Your pet could be experiencing a food allergy. Some breeds are more prone to food allergies than others. Wheat is a common cause, so you will want to avoid pet foods with high grain content. Once you have discovered the causes of your pet’s food allergy, you can use a hypoallergenic diet to help your pet’s digestive system heal.
Try Alternative Therapies
An alternative therapy to try is acupuncture. A pet acupuncturist can use needles on specific points to calm and relieve symptoms. Acupuncture is relaxing and calming to pets, making it a reasonable player in your pet’s wellness plan.
Allergies can be frustrating for both you and your pet. Your vet can help you find the best healing approach.
Source: Dr. Michel Selmer of Advanced Animal Care, located at 260 Evergreen Ave., South Huntington. For more information, call 631-FOR-PETS (631-367-7387) or visit AdvancedCareForPets.com. See ad on page 2.
