Video: Pet Allergies

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STARKVILLE, Miss.(WCBI)–Spring is the time of year that we normally think of when it comes to seasonal allergies. Trees are in bloom and pollen gets in the air, allergy sufferers begin experiencing the usual itchy nose, sniffling and sneezing.

Just like people, our pets also deal with allergic symptoms this time of year.

When it comes to our four legged friends, know this, we’ve had a mild winter in North Mississippi. And fleas are expected to be a burden this season, and pet owners must use preventive measures to keep pets comfortable and healthy.

“The pollen that are coming from the trees and the flowers. There is many species that are out there that dogs react just like we do. You know, you or I may be allergic to pollen, well some of the dogs may be too and there are a lot of different grasses that each individual cat and dog can be allergic to also,” said Reggie Little/Veterinarian.

While you may be able to recognize human symptoms resulting from seasonal allergies, a trained eye can easily spot the condition in pets.

“They may lick their feet a lot, they may be rubbing their face and their nose and ears on the ground and things of that nature. They may be licking their sides, biting their sides, and things of that nature,” said Reggie Little.

Sometimes a blood test can be used to determine allergy problems that are basically manifested in about three types.

“Flea allergy dermatitis, food allergies, and then atopy. And atopy is kind of just the allergy process. And so a lot of times ruling out the fleas, ruling out the food, and when you can kind of get rid of those you are then kind of left with the allergy concept,” said Reggie Little.

Some of the same medications used to treat people, are also used to treat pets.

“Dogs have antihistamine, so sometimes that is suitable to treat with just an antihistamine. Sometimes antihistamine don’t do the best job and we may use a little bit of as steroid just to kind of help to alleviate some of the signs. And once you get rid of them may be they’ll last a little bit. And you’ll give them some symptom free time,” said Reggie Little.

Be sure to call the vet to find out the right dosage for your pet.