Seasonal Allergies: How to Protect Your Pet This Spring

Spring in Gloucester feels fresh and bright. Then your dog starts licking paws at 2 a.m., and your cat hides to scratch behind the ears. I have been there, pacing the hall, trying to help. At Dogtown, our team sees the same spring pattern every year. The good news is simple habits go a long way, and help often comes faster than you think.

Less itch. More joy.

What spring allergies look like

Pets do not sneeze into tissues. They show allergies on the skin and in the ears. Watch for signs that build over a few days, sometimes even hours.

• Constant paw licking or chewing, often after walks
• Scratching the neck, armpits, or base of the tail
• Red, itchy belly or rashes, plus hot spots
• Frequent ear shaking, head tilts, or that yeasty smell
• Watery eyes, reverse sneezing, or a mild cough
• Cats may overgroom and create thin patches of fur

Pets can react to pollen, dust, mold, or even tiny pests. They can also react to food, which is tricky. As reported by the Associated Press, symptoms often include licking, scratching, ear infections, and overgrooming.

Why allergies seem worse lately

I used to think spring was spring. Now it feels longer and stickier. That is not just a feeling. Veterinary dermatologists have noted more environmental allergies and recurrent skin infections, with genetics and changing environments in the mix.

Insurance data matches this trend. There has been a 45% increase in allergy claims for dogs since 2019. Some regions jumped even more. Florida saw a 73% surge in 2023 compared to 2019, with skin issues leading vet visits. Oregon also reported a rise. Different climates, similar itch.

Quick daily steps that help

I like a simple routine. It is not perfect. It does help a lot.

1. Wipe after walks. Keep unscented wipes by the door. Clean paws, belly, and chest. It takes one minute.
2. Rinse the day off. A lukewarm rinse or gentle bath once a week reduces pollen on the coat. Use a mild, vet-approved shampoo.
3. Wash bedding often. Hot wash, extra rinse. Do the favorite blanket too. It matters.
4. Vacuum and dust low. Allergens settle near the floor. A quick pass in pet zones makes a difference.
5. Use a simple barrier. A light paw balm on clean pads can reduce irritation from grass and salt.
6. Plan play smart. On high pollen days, favor puzzle feeders, scent games, and short indoor play.
7. Grooming support. Brushing removes loose hair that hangs onto pollen. For deep care, Dogtown’s grooming services offer hypoallergenic baths and de-shedding that make a real dent in itch cycles. Cats benefit too, and our cat grooming team handles sensitive felines with patience.

Rinse the day away.

When to see the vet

If your pet keeps scratching for more than a week, or you see red, raw skin or ear discharge, call your vet. Acting early saves time and, I think, quite a bit of stress.

Available care ranges from simple to advanced. According to the AP report, treatments include anti-inflammatory drugs, newer oral and injectable allergy meds, and special diets. Specialists also use medications like Apoquel and Cytopoint. They can be pricey and may be long term, so a clear plan with your vet helps. For food triggers, an elimination diet can pinpoint the culprit. Keep notes on flare-ups, weather, food, and shampoo dates. That little log pays off.

How Dogtown can help this spring

Care routines work best when they are steady. Dogtown builds allergy-smart habits into daily life at our Gloucester facility.

• Clean coats, happier skin. Book a hypoallergenic bath or de-shedding through Dogtown grooming. Short coats or long coats, we tailor the session. For felines, cat grooming focuses on gentle handling, mats, and clean skin.
• Thoughtful play. In Dogtown dog daycare, small playgroups and staff-supervised rests keep stress low. We can wipe paws after yard time and adjust indoor activities on high pollen days. Owners get feedback, which helps at home too.
• Overnight comfort. Our boarding suites include clean bedding, tidy runs, and calm routines. That steady care reduces flare triggers.
• Skills that soothe. Dogtown training builds calm handling and easy grooming tolerance. We also teach simple scent games for rainy or high-pollen days.

We start with a free pre-enrollment assessment to understand your pet’s needs. That way, care fits them, not the other way around.

Build a gentle spring routine

Pick two habits to start this week. Maybe wipes by the door and a Sunday rinse. Add bedding wash next week. Not perfect, yet steady. On good days, take a short walk by the harbor and keep the game time indoors when pollen spikes. If you slip, that is okay. Your pet will still feel your care.

Conclusion. Spring allergies are real, but they do not have to run the season. Small steps, early help, and kind routines bring relief. If you want support, or just a nudge to stay on track, visit Dogtown in Gloucester. Schedule a free pre-enrollment assessment and let our team tailor grooming, daycare, boarding, or training for your pet’s comfort and joy.

Frequently asked questions

What are seasonal allergies in pets?

Seasonal allergies are reactions to airborne triggers like pollen and mold. In pets, they show up on the skin and ears more than the nose. Itch, licking, red spots, and ear issues are common, and they often flare during spring and fall.

How can I tell if my pet has allergies?

Watch for patterns: paw licking after walks, scratching the neck or belly, frequent ear shaking, or overgrooming in cats. If signs persist for a week or you see redness, odor, or hair loss, talk with your vet to rule out infections or mites.

What are the best treatments for pet allergies?

Care can include antihistamines, anti-itch meds, medicated shampoos, and newer oral or injectable options. As reported by experts, treatments like Apoquel and Cytopoint are common for atopic dogs. Your vet may also suggest a hypoallergenic diet trial.

How often should I clean for allergies?

Wipe paws after each outdoor trip, bathe or rinse weekly, and wash bedding once a week. Vacuum pet zones several times a week if possible. Small, steady steps keep pollen loads lower and help prevent flare-ups.

Can indoor pets get seasonal allergies?

Yes. Pollen drifts indoors on clothing, fur, and open windows. Indoor cats and dogs can still itch, chew, and get ear problems in spring. Regular cleaning, air flow control, and grooming support keep symptoms in check.