Seasonal allergies aren’t just a human problem—they affect pets too. In Vancouver, changing seasons, pollen, mold, and environmental factors can trigger sneezing, itchy skin, watery eyes, and digestive upset in dogs and cats. At Killarney Animal Hospital, we often see pets struggling with seasonal allergies, and the good news is that many triggers can be managed or reduced with proactive care.
Understanding Seasonal Allergies in Pets
Seasonal allergies occur when your pet’s immune system overreacts to harmless substances like pollen, grass, or mold spores. These allergens cause inflammation in the skin, respiratory system, or digestive tract, leading to discomfort and sometimes secondary infections.
Common symptoms include:
- Sneezing, coughing, or watery eyes
- Itchy skin, redness, or hair loss
- Licking or chewing paws excessively
- Ear infections or odor
- Digestive upset in sensitive pets
Common Triggers in Vancouver
Vancouver’s mild, rainy climate and abundant greenery create an environment where allergens can thrive. Some common local triggers include:
- Tree, grass, and weed pollen (especially in spring and summer)
- Mold and mildew from damp weather
- Dust mites indoors during rainy months
- Outdoor irritants like fertilizers or garden chemicals
Understanding which allergens affect your pet is the first step in prevention.
Tips for Preventing Seasonal Allergies in Pets
1. Minimize Outdoor Allergen Exposure
- Limit outdoor walks during high pollen days, especially mid-morning and early evening
- Wipe your pet’s paws and coat after walks to remove pollen and debris
- Keep windows closed on windy days when pollen counts are high
2. Maintain a Clean Environment
- Regularly vacuum floors, carpets, and pet bedding
- Wash bedding and blankets frequently in hot water
- Use HEPA filters to reduce airborne allergens indoors
3. Grooming and Bathing
- Frequent brushing removes pollen, dust, and loose hair
- Bathing with a gentle, pet-safe shampoo can wash away allergens and soothe irritated skin
- For cats, use a damp cloth or pet wipe if they tolerate bathing poorly
4. Diet and Supplements
- High-quality diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids can support skin and coat health
- Some pets may benefit from allergy-support supplements recommended by your veterinarian
5. Veterinary Care
- Early detection and management are crucial to prevent flare-ups from becoming severe
- Your veterinarian may recommend antihistamines, medicated shampoos, or allergy-specific treatments
- Allergy testing may be an option for pets with persistent or severe reactions
When to Call the Vet
Seek veterinary care if your pet shows:
- Persistent itching or scratching
- Recurrent ear infections
- Hair loss or skin lesions
- Respiratory issues such as coughing or wheezing
- Digestive problems linked to seasonal triggers
Timely intervention can prevent secondary infections and improve your pet’s quality of life.
How Killarney Animal Hospital Can Help
Our team works with pet owners to identify allergy triggers, develop prevention strategies, and provide treatment plans tailored to each pet. Whether it’s adjusting your pet’s diet, recommending supplements, or creating an environmental management plan, we help keep your pets comfortable year-round.
Call Killarney Animal Hospital at +1 (604)-433-5500 to schedule an appointment or discuss seasonal allergy prevention for your pet.