Seasonal Allergies in Pets: Causes, Symptoms & Relief

Seasonal allergies don’t just affect people – our pets can suffer from them too. If you’ve noticed your dog scratching or your cat sneezing more during certain times of the year, they may have seasonal allergies. This comprehensive guide explains what seasonal allergies are, common triggers in Canada (especially Ontario), how to spot pet allergy symptoms, and ways to get relief. We’ll cover dog-specific and cat-specific signs, diagnosis methods, vet-approved treatments, how to treat pet allergies at home, preventive measures like grooming and hypoallergenic diets, and even recommend some PetMax products to help your itchy pet. By the end, you’ll know how to keep your furry friend comfortable through the seasons.

What Are Seasonal Allergies in Pets?

Seasonal allergies in pets (also known as atopic dermatitis or environmental allergies) occur when a pet’s immune system overreacts to airborne or contact allergens that are harmless to most animals. Common allergens include pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds, as well as mold spores and dust mites. When a dog or cat encounters these allergens – by inhaling them or contacting them with skin or fur – their body mistakenly treats them as threats. This triggers an immune response that causes inflammation, itching, and other allergy symptoms. Unlike food allergies (which can happen year-round), seasonal allergies tend to flare up during certain times of year when specific allergens are present.

In Canada and Ontario, seasonal allergies in pets are often tied to the climate and plant cycle. Spring brings tree pollen; summer brings grass pollen; and late summer into early fall sees weed pollens like ragweed. Mold and fungi can be year-round issues, especially in damp conditions or indoor environments. For example, Southern Ontario’s late summer has high ragweed levels, a notorious trigger for dog allergies. Understanding these patterns can help pet owners anticipate allergy season for their pets.

All breeds and ages can develop seasonal allergies, though symptoms often start when pets are young adults (around 1-3 years old). Over time, what might begin as a mild, seasonal issue can become a year-round problem if not managed, because repeated exposure can sensitize pets more. It’s important to note that seasonal allergies cannot be “cured” – instead, the goal is to manage symptoms and avoid triggers. With the right care, however, your pet can be comfortable even during allergy season.

Common Seasonal Allergy Triggers in Canada

Pets in Canada encounter many of the same seasonal allergy triggers that people do. Knowing the common allergens can help you minimize exposure. Here are key triggers by season for Canadian pets, including those in Ontario:

• Tree Pollen (Spring): As soon as trees start budding in spring, they release pollen into the air. Maple, birch, oak, and pine tree pollens are common culprits. In Ontario, tree pollen counts rise in April and May.

• Grass Pollen (Summer): Grasses like timothy, bluegrass, and ragweed (technically a weed) produce pollen in summer. These can peak in June through August. Ragweed pollen is especially problematic in late summer (August/September), causing “hay fever” in humans and skin allergies in dogs.

• Weed Pollen (Late Summer/Fall): Besides ragweed, weeds like nettle, dock, and plantain release pollen in early fall. Allergic pets may get itchy as autumn begins.

• Mold and Mildew (Year-Round): Mold spores thrive in moist environments like piles of damp leaves in fall or basements in spring. Outdoor molds can spike in fall. Indoor molds and mildew can cause symptoms any time of year, especially if a house is humid.

• Dust Mites (Indoor, Year-Round): House dust mites are tiny insects that live in household dust. They aren’t seasonal per se, but many pets with seasonal allergies also react to dust mites. In winter, when homes are closed up, dust mite exposure may increase.

• Insect Bites (Warm Seasons): Fleas and mosquito bites can trigger allergic reactions. Flea Allergy Dermatitis (FAD) is one of the most common pet allergies – even one flea bite can set off intense itching in a sensitive dog or cat. Fleas are worst in late summer and early fall in Ontario, overlapping with pollen season. Always rule out fleas as a cause of itching.

• Indoor Irritants: Though not truly seasonal, things like cigarette smoke, perfumes, or cleaning chemicals can worsen your pet’s allergy symptoms. These irritants might be noticed more in winter when indoor air circulation is limited.

By knowing these triggers, you can try to limit your pet’s exposure. For instance, during high pollen days in spring or fall, keep windows closed and use air conditioning or air purifiers. After your dog romps in the grass, rinse or wipe their paws and belly to remove pollen. Regular house cleaning, using HEPA filters, and controlling indoor humidity (to prevent mold and dust mites) are all ways to create an allergy-friendly environment.

Signs and Symptoms of Pet Seasonal Allergies

How do you know if your pet has seasonal allergies? Pet allergy symptoms often affect the skin, ears, and sometimes the respiratory tract. However, dogs, cats, and small pets can show different signs. It’s important to recognize what’s normal for each type of pet.

Dog Seasonal Allergy Symptoms

Dogs with seasonal allergies usually itch and scratch persistently. In people, allergies often cause sneezing and runny noses; in dogs, the immune reaction more commonly shows up as skin problems. Key signs of dog seasonal allergies include:

• Excessive scratching, chewing, or licking: You may see your dog scratching their ears, shaking their head, or chewing their paws and legs incessantly. Itchiness often centers on the face, ears, armpits, belly, and paws. Dogs might rub their face on the carpet or furniture to relieve itch around the eyes and muzzle.

• Red, irritated skin or rash: You might notice redness on your dog’s belly, underarms, or between their toes. The skin can develop rashes or hives, and over time may thicken or darken from chronic irritation.

• Hot spots and hair loss: Constant licking can lead to wet, inflamed sores called hot spots. You might also see bald patches where the dog has chewed the fur off.

• Recurrent ear infections: Allergies are a top cause of ear infections in dogs. Signs include ear scratching, head shaking, red inflamed ear canals, or a smelly discharge from the ears. If your dog gets ear infections every spring or fall, allergies could be why.

• Eye discharge or redness: Some dogs get watery eyes or conjunctivitis (pink, inflamed eyes) from allergens.

• Sneezing or snoring: Although dogs typically show skin symptoms, they can occasionally have sneezing fits or nasal congestion. Some short-nosed breeds may snore more if their nasal passages swell.

• Secondary infections: If left untreated, the constant scratching can break the skin, letting bacteria or yeast cause infections. Signs of secondary infection include pimples, pus, or a foul odor on the skin. This can make the itching even worse, creating a vicious cycle.

Usually, these symptoms flare up during a particular season when the allergen is present (e.g., every spring). You might notice your dog’s itching subsides in winter, only to return the next pollen season. Over years, seasonal allergies can become more prolonged or severe if not managed, potentially lasting all year.

Cat Seasonal Allergy Symptoms

Cats can suffer from seasonal allergies much like dogs do, but their signs can be a bit different and sometimes more subtle. Cat seasonal allergies often show up as skin and respiratory symptoms:

• Itchy skin and overgrooming: An allergic cat often grooms excessively, licking or chewing at itchy areas. You might see them scratching at their neck, ears, or face with their hind claws. Overgrooming can lead to bald spots, especially on the belly or legs, as the cat pulls out fur trying to relieve the itch.

• Scabs or sores (miliary dermatitis): Many allergic cats develop small, crusty scabs on the skin, often around the neck or back. This is a reaction called miliary dermatitis. They may also develop larger open sores or ulcers from constant scratching (sometimes called eosinophilic plaques).

• Ear problems: Like dogs, cats can get itchy ears or recurrent ear infections due to allergies. You might notice head shaking, ear scratching, or a dark waxy buildup in the ears.

• Runny nose and sneezing: Cats are somewhat more likely than dogs to show respiratory signs from allergies. You might notice sneezing fits, a clear runny nose, or congested breathing in an allergic cat. However, frequent sneezing or nasal discharge in cats could also be due to other issues (like viruses), so a vet check is important.

• Watery eyes or red eyes: Allergic cats may have watery, irritated eyes. In some cases, they can even develop allergic bronchitis or asthma, leading to coughing or wheezing episodes (ongoing wheezing during certain seasons could indicate an allergy).

• Vomiting or hairballs: If a cat swallows a lot of fur from overgrooming itchy skin, they might vomit hairballs more often. Occasionally, allergies can also cause digestive upset or vomiting not just from hair but due to inflammation.

• Behavior changes: A normally friendly cat might become irritable or lethargic when suffering from allergies. Discomfort from itchy skin can make them grumpy, or they may hide more.

For indoor cats, you might wonder how they get seasonal allergies. Remember that pollen can drift indoors through windows or on our clothing. So even a cat that never goes outside can react to seasonal allergens. If your cat shows these symptoms around the same time each year, consult your vet to determine if seasonal atopy is the cause.

Allergies in Small Pets (Rabbits, Guinea Pigs, etc.)

While dogs and cats are the most commonly affected, small pets can have allergies too. Rabbits, guinea pigs, and other small animals can react to environmental allergens or irritants in their bedding. Signs might include sneezing, watery eyes, a runny nose, or itchiness. For example, a rabbit allergic to something in the air might have bouts of sneezing and clear nasal discharge, along with pawing at its nose or face. Guinea pigs might develop flaky skin or itch if allergic to bedding mites or dust.

Common triggers for small mammals include dusty hay or bedding, wood shavings (some, like cedar, release aromatic oils that irritate airways), and mold in hay. If your bunny or guinea pig is sneezing frequently, check their environment – switching to a dust-free paper bedding or rinsing their hay to remove dust can help. Always rule out infections first, as respiratory infections are also common in small pets. If you suspect a true allergy in a small pet, consult a exotic-pet veterinarian for guidance. They might recommend antihistamines or environmental changes to relieve your little pet’s symptoms.

Diagnosing Seasonal Allergies in Pets

If you notice the signs above, it’s important to consult a veterinarian to confirm if it’s truly allergies and not another condition. Diagnosing seasonal allergies in pets can be a process of elimination and sometimes specific testing.

Veterinary Exam & History: The vet will start by taking a thorough history – for example, noting if the itching is seasonal, if the pet’s diet changed, or if there are any new products in the home. A physical exam can rule out other causes. Skin parasites like fleas or mites can cause similar itching, so the vet may use a flea comb or do skin scrapings to check for those first. If fleas are present, the vet will address that and see if the allergy signs resolve (since flea allergy is common).

Allergy Testing: There are two main types of allergy tests for pets – intradermal skin testing and blood testing. Intradermal skin testing (usually done by veterinary dermatologists) is considered the gold standard for environmental allergies. In this test, small amounts of common allergens (pollens, dust mites, etc.) are injected just under the pet’s skin, and the sites are observed for reactions (redness or swelling) which indicate an allergy. Blood tests (looking for allergen-specific IgE antibodies in the blood) are also available, but many vets find them less accurate or prone to false results. Still, they can be useful in some cases or when skin testing isn’t feasible.

Food Trial: If the itching isn’t clearly seasonal, or if it persists year-round, your vet might also suggest a hypoallergenic elimination diet to rule out food allergies. This involves feeding a prescription or limited-ingredient diet with novel protein sources (or hydrolyzed proteins) for 8-12 weeks to see if symptoms improve. Food allergies aren’t “seasonal” but can occur alongside seasonal atopy, so it’s important to identify all triggers.

Response to Treatment: Sometimes diagnosis is confirmed by how the pet responds to treatment. If an itchy dog gets dramatically better with allergy medications during pollen season, that supports the diagnosis of seasonal allergies. On the other hand, if antibiotics clear up the issue, a bacterial skin infection might have been the primary cause. Vets try to get the full picture before labeling a pet as allergic.

When to see a specialist: For severe or stubborn cases, your vet may refer you to a veterinary dermatologist. These specialists can perform advanced testing and formulate custom allergy shots. They are usually involved if a pet has year-round severe atopic dermatitis or has reached a stage where standard meds no longer work (sometimes called Stage Three allergies in dogs, where specialist care is needed).

Diagnosing pet allergies can take time. Be patient and work closely with your vet. Once you have a clearer idea of your pet’s triggers, you can manage the condition much more effectively.

Vet-Approved Treatments for Seasonal Allergies

When it comes to relieving pet allergy symptoms, your veterinarian can recommend a variety of treatments. The right approach depends on how severe the symptoms are and what’s causing them. Often, a combination of therapies works best to keep your pet comfortable.

• Antihistamines: Over-the-counter antihistamines (like diphenhydramine/Benadryl or cetirizine) can help mild allergy cases by blocking histamine, a chemical that causes itching. Some pets respond well to antihistamines, especially if given early in an allergy flare-up. Always check with a vet for the correct dosage and to ensure a medication is safe for your pet’s species and size. Antihistamines tend to be more effective in dogs than cats, but they are worth trying (under vet guidance) for either.

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Dietary supplements rich in omega-3s (from fish oil, for example) have natural anti-inflammatory effects. Vets often recommend omega-3 fatty acid supplements to improve skin health and reduce itch in allergic pets. These can take several weeks to build up effect, so they’re often used as a preventive measure started before allergy season. Many hypoallergenic pet products in Canada include omega-3s for this reason.

• Medicated Shampoos and Topicals: Frequent bathing can wash off allergens and soothe inflamed skin. Vets often prescribe medicated shampoos containing ingredients like oatmeal, aloe, or chlorhexidine to help itchy pets. For example, a hypoallergenic pet shampoo (fragrance-free, soap-free) can provide relief and is gentle on sensitive skin. Products like oatmeal-based shampoos or anti-itch sprays can be used at home (PetMax offers options like Le Salon Hypo-Allergenic Shampoo for Dogs or Tropiclean Oxy-Med Anti-Itch Shampoo – gentle choices for allergic pets). Always follow your vet’s guidance on how often to bathe; over-bathing with the wrong product can dry out skin, but using the right therapeutic shampoo can greatly relieve itch.

• Steroids (Corticosteroids): For moderate to severe itching, corticosteroids (like prednisone) are highly effective at reducing inflammation. They can be given as pills, injections, or creams. Vets often use steroids for short-term relief or to calm a bad flare-up because they work quickly. However, steroids have side effects (increased thirst, appetite, urination; long-term use can lead to other issues), so they try to use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration.

• Newer Anti-itch Medications: In the last decade, new medications have been developed specifically for pet allergies. Oclacitinib (brand name Apoquel) is a pill for dogs that targets the itch pathway and can dramatically reduce itching with fewer side effects than steroids. Similarly, there’s an injectable antibody therapy for dogs called lokivetmab (brand name Cytopoint) that neutralizes an itch-signaling protein; a single shot can give a dog relief for 4–8 weeks. These options are prescription-only and given under veterinary supervision. For cats, some off-label immune-modulating drugs may be used as well (research is ongoing for cat-specific therapies).

• Immunotherapy (Allergy Shots or Drops): If a pet has known specific allergens from testing, allergen-specific immunotherapy can be a long-term solution. This involves giving the pet tiny amounts of the allergen (via injection or oral drops) regularly to retrain the immune system to tolerate them. It’s like how people get allergy shots. Over months to a year, many pets improve significantly and may require less other medication. Immunotherapy is the closest thing to addressing the root cause of the allergy rather than just symptoms. It does require commitment and isn’t an instant fix, but success rates are quite good, especially in dogs.

• Treating Secondary Infections: Often allergic pets need treatment for the secondary ear or skin infections that accompany allergies. Your vet may prescribe antibiotic or antifungal medications (pills or topical creams/ear drops) to clear up those infections. Clearing infections can dramatically reduce itching and pain, making the pet feel much better.

• Avoiding Allergen Exposure: While not a “medication,” one of the best strategies is allergen avoidance or reduction. For example, if a cat is very allergic to dust mites, using impermeable covers on bedding and vacuuming frequently can help. If a dog reacts to pollen, limiting outdoor time on high-pollen days and cleaning their fur after walks is beneficial. Complete avoidance isn’t always possible (you can’t avoid all pollen in the air), but every bit helps to reduce the allergen load on your pet’s system.

Your veterinarian will tailor a treatment plan to your pet. Often for dog seasonal allergies, a multi-modal approach is used: for instance, a dog might get an allergy shot at the start of spring, take antihistamines or Apoquel during peak weeks, eat a special diet with added fish oil year-round, and weekly baths to remove allergens. Following the vet’s plan and doing any at-home steps consistently gives the best results. Always consult your vet before giving any medication (even over-the-counter ones) to ensure it’s safe and appropriate for your pet.

At-Home Care: How to Treat Pet Allergies at Home

In addition to vet-prescribed treatments, there are several at-home care tips that can make a big difference in managing your pet’s seasonal allergies. Home remedies and lifestyle adjustments can help soothe your pet’s symptoms and prevent some exposure to allergens. Here’s how to treat pet allergies at home:

• Regular Grooming and Baths: Bathing your pet can wash off pollen, dust, and allergens trapped in their fur. Use a gentle hypoallergenic shampoo (with no harsh chemicals or fragrances). Ingredients like oatmeal and aloe vera are great for soothing itchy skin naturally. For example, giving your dog an oatmeal bath can provide immediate relief to irritated skin by reducing inflammation. Aim for a bath every 1-2 weeks during allergy season, or as recommended by your vet. In between baths, wiping your pet’s coat and paws with a damp cloth or pet-safe wipes after they come in from outside can remove a lot of pollen and prevent paw licking. PetMax carries Tropiclean Oxy Med Soothing Allergy Relief Wipes that are handy for quick clean-ups.

• Foot Soaks: Many dogs (and even some cats) get itchy, irritated paws from pollen and grass contact. A simple foot soak in cool water or an oatmeal-infused rinse can help. You can dip your pet’s paws in a basin with water after walks. Adding a bit of baking soda or Epsom salts can also ease inflammation. This at-home routine prevents your pet from tracking allergens into the house and reduces paw licking.

• Clean Home Environment: Keeping your pet’s surroundings clean is key. Vacuum your home frequently (especially carpets and upholstery where pollen and dust collect). Washing your pet’s bedding in hot water weekly will kill dust mites and remove allergens. Consider using a HEPA air purifier in the rooms where your pet spends the most time – this helps filter out pollen, mold spores, and dander in the air. Also, during high pollen season, try to keep windows closed and use air conditioning to filter air. Simple steps like these can greatly cut down the allergen burden in your home.

• Diet and Supplements: A healthy diet can support your pet’s immune system. Some pet owners switch to a grain-free diet or limited-ingredient diet if they suspect food sensitivities contributing to skin issues. While environmental allergies are separate, feeding a high-quality, balanced diet keeps your pet’s skin and coat in top condition, which can make them more resilient. Omega-3 supplements (fish oil) added to food can act as a natural anti-inflammatory as mentioned. You might also find supplements labeled for “allergy relief” that contain things like quercetin (a natural antihistamine from plants), colostrum, or probiotics that support skin health. For example, Naturvet Allergy Aid (available at PetMax) contains antioxidants and Omega-3s to bolster the immune system and help with seasonal allergies. Always introduce any new supplement gradually and with vet approval.

• Avoiding Irritants: At home, avoid using strongly scented shampoos, detergents, or cleaning products on or around your pet. Choose hypoallergenic, pet-safe cleaning products – for instance, wash your pet’s bedding with fragrance-free detergent. If you smoke, try to do it outside, away from your pet, as smoke can aggravate respiratory allergies. Also, keep an eye on household air fresheners or scented candles, as these can bother sensitive noses.

• DIY Relief Aids: Some natural home remedies can provide relief. Aloe vera gel (ensuring it’s pure and pet-safe with no additives) can be applied to small itchy spots to soothe the skin (just prevent the pet from licking it until absorbed). A 50/50 apple cider vinegar and water spray can act as a mild anti-itch spray for dogs – the vinegar helps fight bacteria/yeast and can alleviate itch on intact skin (do not use on raw or irritated skin, as it will sting). Always patch-test any home remedy on a small area first.

• Calming the Itch: If your pet is extremely itchy and waiting to see the vet, you can use an over-the-counter antihistamine like Benadryl (diphenhydramine) in some cases to take the edge off the itch, but you must call your vet for the correct dose. Do not apply human anti-itch creams without veterinary advice; some ingredients (like hydrocortisone cream) can be used short-term with guidance, but pets might lick them off. Instead, you can use an Elizabethan collar (e-collar) temporarily to prevent chewing if a particular spot is very inflamed, until you get proper treatment.

With these at-home strategies, many pet owners find their pets are much more comfortable. Small daily routines – wiping paws, washing bedding, supplementing diet – can add up to significant relief. However, if you try home care and your pet is still miserable, always seek veterinary care. Severe allergies may need prescription relief, and secondary infections need proper medicine. Home care works best in tandem with professional advice.

Preventive Measures for Pet Allergies

While you can’t magically make your pet’s allergies disappear, you can take proactive steps to lessen the frequency or intensity of flare-ups. Preventive measures are all about reducing exposure to allergens and keeping your pet’s skin healthy so they’re less reactive. Here are some effective strategies:

• Year-Round Grooming Routine: Don’t wait for peak allergy season to start grooming. Brush your pet regularly throughout the year to remove dander and distribute natural oils in their coat. This improves skin barrier function. During heavy shed seasons (spring/fall), extra brushing helps remove loose fur that can trap allergens. Consider having dogs trimmed or clipped shorter (if appropriate for the breed) during summer to make baths and inspections easier. Cats usually groom themselves well, but weekly brushing can still help reduce the allergen load.

• Seasonal Allergy Planning: If you know when your pet’s allergies tend to act up, prepare in advance. For example, start omega-3 supplements or allergy medications a few weeks before pollen season begins. Increase the frequency of baths as the season approaches. You might also use a preventative allergy chew or supplement during this time – something like the Granville Island Allergy Aid dog treats (available at PetMax) which contain immune-boosting herbs to fortify your dog before allergy season hits.

• Hypoallergenic Diets: Some pets with severe allergies benefit from a hypoallergenic or grain-free diet. Even if your pet’s main triggers are environmental, feeding a simple, high-quality diet without common allergens (like beef, chicken, wheat, corn) can reduce the overall “allergic load” on their body. For instance, limited-ingredient or novel protein diets (e.g., salmon and sweet potato, or kangaroo-based food) are options. PetMax offers grain-free diet options in Canada for both dogs and cats – like the Go! Sensitivities Limited Ingredient food line , or single-ingredient treats such as Crumps’ Naturals Sweet Potato Chews which make great hypoallergenic snacks. Always transition diets gradually and consult your vet, especially if considering a therapeutic diet.

• Flea and Parasite Control: Prevent flea infestations with veterinary-recommended flea control products year-round (or at least during warm seasons). Even if fleas are not the main issue, preventing any flea bites eliminates the risk of flea allergy compounding your pet’s problems. Many vets advise using flea prevention through the end of fall in Ontario, since fleas can linger through mild autumn weather.

• Environmental Control: Modify your pet’s environment to minimize allergens. Use washable cotton covers on pet beds that you can clean often. Avoid letting pets roll in piles of leaves (mold heaven!) or romp in high grass during peak pollen days. After outdoor play, do a quick “pollen wipe-down” as mentioned. Keep your lawn trimmed to reduce tall grasses and weeds. Indoors, consider replacing air filters frequently and possibly using allergen covers on human bedding if your pet sleeps with you (this helps both pet and owner if either has allergies to dust mites).

• Regular Vet Checkups: Have your vet examine your pet at least annually (or more if allergies are bad). They can check ears, skin, and overall health. Sometimes catching an ear infection or mild dermatitis early prevents it from becoming a major flare-up. Discuss with your vet if prophylactic measures like immunotherapy are right for your pet – in some cases, starting allergy shots before symptoms are severe yields the best outcome.

• Allergy Testing & Immunotherapy: As a preventive long-term measure, if your pet’s allergies are significant, investing in allergy testing and subsequent immunotherapy can pay off. It’s a commitment, but by desensitizing your pet to specific allergens, you could greatly reduce their need for medications in the future. Think of it as “vaccinating” your pet against what they’re allergic to. Over time, immunotherapy can increase your pet’s tolerance to pollen, dust, etc., and make seasonal flare-ups much milder or even negligible.

By combining these preventive tips with the treatments and care approaches discussed earlier, you’ll form a robust defense against seasonal allergies. Every pet is different – some might just need a special shampoo and diet, while others require a full regimen of meds and home care. Stay observant and adjust your strategy as you learn what works best for your dog or cat. The goal is to keep your pet happy, itch-free, and enjoying each season to the fullest!

Recommended PetMax Products & Services: Don’t forget that PetMax.ca has a variety of resources to support you and your pet through allergy season. From natural allergy relief chews and supplements, to hypoallergenic pet shampoos, to grain-free diets, PetMax offers carefully selected products for sensitive pets. For example, you might try the Naturvet Dog Allergy Aid Supplement for immune support or the Le Salon Oatmeal Shampoo to calm itchy skin. These products are available online and at our Hamilton, Ontario store. Using the right products at home can significantly help in managing your pet’s allergies.

 

Conclusion

Seasonal allergies in pets are a manageable condition once you recognize the problem and take action. By understanding the common triggers in Canada – from spring pollens to fall molds – you can anticipate your pet’s needs. Keep an eye out for pet allergy symptoms like itching, redness, or sneezing, and consult your vet for proper diagnosis and treatment. With a combination of veterinary care (like antihistamines or allergy shots) and at-home measures (baths, cleaning, and perhaps hypoallergenic diets), your furry companion can get much-needed relief. Remember that each pet is unique; it may take some patience to find the perfect regimen that works for them.

Ultimately, our goal as pet parents is to keep our beloved dogs, cats, and small pets comfortable and healthy year-round. Don’t let seasonal allergies hold your pet back from enjoying the outdoors or cozy indoor snuggles. With the tips and solutions outlined in this guide, you’re well-equipped to tackle allergies head-on. If you need personalized advice or quality products, reach out to PetMax or visit PetMax.ca – we’re here to help Canadian pet owners with expert guidance and a range of hypoallergenic pet products Canada trusts. Here’s to an itch-free, tail-wagging, purr-filled allergy season!

Ready to give your pet relief? Shop PetMax.ca for allergy supplements, shampoos, and more, or contact our team for one-on-one assistance. Let’s make allergy season a happier time for you and your pet.