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Seasonal allergies in pets can be frustrating, both for the animals suffering from them and their owners who want to help. While waiting for your vet appointment, here are some things you can try at home to alleviate your pet’s discomfort and manage their symptoms.
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1. Eye Irritation: Genteal Tears
If your pet's eyes are red, itchy, or watery due to allergies Sterile Saline eye rinse or just washing eyelids and face with water and a washcloth helps to remove the physical allergens on the face.
Genteal Tears is a lubricant eye drop that can also provide some relief. This product is safe for both dogs and cats and can help soothe irritation. You can apply a drop or two in each eye as needed. Important: Make sure to avoid any products that contain steroids unless prescribed by your veterinarian.
2. Paw Care: Douxo Wipes
Many pets with seasonal allergies will lick or chew their paws excessively. To minimize irritation and reduce the risk of secondary infections, one of the easiest things to do is remove the allergens by rinsing and drying paws when coming in from outside.
You can also use Duoxo wipes or a similar medicated wipe to clean their feet. These wipes can help remove allergens like pollen or mold spores that your pet may pick up during walks.
3. Skin Soothing: Douxo Mousse or Shampoo
If your pet has irritated or itchy skin, wiping your pet down after coming inside can reduce the allergens they carry on their fur, helping to reduce their allergic reactions.
You can use Douxo S3 Calm Mousse or Douxo S3 Calm Shampoo with both dogs and cats. Wipes, such as Douxo S3 Wipes and Earthbath Hypo-Allergenic Grooming Wipes, are another option.
4. Itch Relief: Cetirizine
Managing Your Pet's Seasonal Allergies: What to Do While Waiting for a Vet AppointmentCetirizine is an over-the-counter antihistamine that can be given to dogs and cats to help manage allergy symptoms. Cetirizine is the active ingredient in medications like Zyrtec.
DO NOT USE the Zyrtec-D formula, as it contains pseudoephedrine, which is dangerous for pets.
The typical dosage of Cetirizine for dogs is 1 mg per kg of body weight, once daily - call your vet if you have any questions. For cats, the standard dose is 5mg/per cat (liquid may be easier to administer). Always consult with your vet before starting any new medication, even over-the-counter options.
5. Bathing: Regular Rinses
Regular baths with a hypoallergenic, fragrance-free shampoo like Duoxo S3 Calm Shampoo can help wash away allergens on your pet’s skin and coat. For pets with more severe skin symptoms, your vet might recommend a medicated shampoo but, until your appointment, a gentle rinse can provide some relief.
6. Wound Care: Open Skin, Scratches, and Abrasions
If your pet’s scratching gave them some open wounds or skin abrasions, you can use Wound Care Spray to gently clean the area and help their skin heal. This also helps to lower the chance of the wound getting infected.
When to See the Vet
While these steps can help manage your pet’s symptoms temporarily, they are not a substitute for professional veterinary care. If your pet’s symptoms worsen, if they experience difficulty breathing, or if they develop open sores, contact your vet immediately.
Seasonal allergies can be uncomfortable for your pet, but with a few proactive measures, you can help them feel better while waiting for their appointment. Always follow up with your vet to discuss long-term management and treatment options.
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