Is your dog itching more as the season's change from Winter to Spring?

Spring atopy, or seasonal allergies, can affect dogs just like it does humans. Pollen, grass, mold, and other environmental allergens become more prevalent this time of year, triggering allergic reactions in some dogs. This can lead to symptoms like itching, scratching, head shaking, licking, and redness of the skin.

Your dog's itching could also be caused by other factors, including:

1. Food Allergies: Certain proteins and carbohydrates found in your dogs' food can cause itching of the skin or ear infections.

2. Fleas and ticks: Flea bites can cause intense itching and discomfort for dogs. Ticks can also irritate the skin and transmit diseases.

3. Skin infections: Bacterial or fungal infections of the skin can cause itching and discomfort.

4. Parasites: Other parasites like mites (such as "Scabies" or mange) or lice can cause itching.

5. Dry skin: Just like humans, dogs can suffer from dry skin, especially in dry or cold weather, leading to itching.

6. Contact dermatitis: Exposure to certain substances like chemicals, plants, bug bites, or grooming products can cause irritation and itching.

7. Stress or anxiety: Psychological factors can sometimes lead to excessive grooming/licking and itching in dogs.
    

If your dog is excessively itchy, it's best to call our office and set up an appointment with one of our doctors. We can help determine the underlying cause of the itching and help develop an appropriate treatment plan to help your pet return to a more comfortable state. We may recommend allergy testing, changes in diet, medications, or other interventions to help alleviate your dog's discomfort. Please contact us to schedule an appointment if you feel your dog is scratching or licking excessively.