As seasonal allergies sweep through the region, pet owners may find their four-legged friends grappling with allergy symptoms.
Limestone Coast Vet nurse Caitlin Hawke said the clinic had seen lots of animals displaying allergy symptoms and this time of year presented an uptick in cases.
“It seems to be really constant, we seem to see it all year round, but it definitely does ramp up a bit at this time of year,” Ms Hawke said.
Ms Hawke said that, much like humans, there are several factors that can contribute to allergies in pets, however pollen appeared to be the main cause ramping up at the moment.
“It can be pollen, because we have got the pine forests around, that sets it off around summer, and the grasses, if they’re allergic to certain grasses we see that a lot. Sometimes, it can just be the breed if they’re prone to being a bit sensitive to things,” she said.
“We definitely notice it more with dogs, cats not so much; cats might have a bit of a sneeze and runny eyes and things like that, but they seem to fight it off better than what the dogs do and mask the symptoms.”
Ms Hawke said there are a few key symptoms owners can watch out for if they suspect their dog is experiencing allergies.
“Dogs will scratch a lot, they will lick at their paws, in between their toes, and they will get quite red and get an infection or a rash in their toes or their underbelly as well if they are scratching a lot,” she said.
“Fleas can be a factor as well, and with the warmer weather there’s more of them coming out as well; if they have a flea allergy, it can take just one bite to cause an infection.”
Ms Hawke said if people suspect their pet is experiencing allergies, they should first ensure they are up-to-date with their flea treatment to rule that out as a possible cause, and if the symptoms are still occurring, to consult with a veterinarian.
“Most (medications) will not be available over the counter, you will need a prescription from a vet,” she said.
“They can either trial antihistamines and see if that helps if it’s mild, but if it’s quite serious they will require steroids. If it’s a bad allergy reaction and they have got an infection they will require antibiotics.
“We do get a lot of people coming in wanting to know if there’s anything they can give their pet they do not have to see a vet for, but a lot of the time it does need a vet visit.”
