A Pet's View / November 2006
Allergy Hot Spots
Many Americans unknowingly live in allergy “hot spots.” These “Allergy Capitals” are the worst places to live with allergies when ragweed and mold spores peak in the fall months. But, it isn’t just people that are suffering. Pets can suffer the most from fall allergies.
Just like with people, ragweed is one of the most common types of allergens for dogs. While tree and grass pollen levels start to drop off as autumn approaches, ragweed sees explosive growth across the country from late August to late October or beyond. In humans, ragweed allergies manifest as sneezing and watery eyes, but for many of America’s seven million allergic dogs, ragweed reactions take a far more serious form as inflamed, itchy skin and infections that develop from atopic dermatitis.
Second only to ragweed as a canine allergen, mold spores also see a surge in early to late fall due to higher concentrations of dead leaves and other decaying matter. Widespread in fields, ditches and front lawns, ragweed and mold spores live at the perfect sniffing level of any active, curious dog.
In early fall, it doesn’t matter where dogs walk or run, they are bound to run into ragweed and mold, which can lead to intense allergic reactions. The best precaution is to limit exposure to allergens in early fall, but when allergic reactions occur, pet owners should consider how their veterinarian can help with medicine for dogs.
Although there are numerous over-the-counter options for people, only one option for long-term management of canine allergies is available for dogs, FDA-approved Atopica®.
Owners can proactively avoid some frustration by staying away from un-mowed grass. Ragweed pollen is more likely to be airborne in areas with high grass and weeds. To limit exposure, restrict a dog’s outdoor time to either mowed lawns or areas of packed dirt during the peak ragweed season, August 15 through the end of September.
Cleaning up leaves and other decaying matter promptly will also help. Leaves sitting on a lawn are more likely to absorb water and decay, creating higher concentrations of mold. Clean up decaying matter quickly and keep dogs inside to limit exposure.
Some dogs shouldn’t do mornings. Pollen tends to circulate most heavily between 5 a.m. and 10 a.m., so limit outdoor activities during those times. Conversely, rain helps prevent pollen from spreading, so take advantage after rain showers for outdoor activities.
Brushing the dog down when returning indoors and frequent bathing can cut down on allergic reactions, too. Any time spent outdoors exposes dogs to mold spores and ragweed pollen that gets trapped in their coat. Grooming the dog with a stiff brush before coming indoors helps prevent the prolonged contact that leads to allergic reactions. Bathing weekly washes off many of the pollens and spores that cannot be removed through brushing.
Copyright © 2007 A Woman's View. All rights reserved.
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