Hours Weeknights: 7pm to 8am
Weekends/Holidays: 24 Hour Service Friday 7pm to Monday 8am

Hours Weeknights: 7pm to 8am
Weekends/Holidays: 24 Hour Service Friday 7pm to Monday 8am

Unit 10, 1 Wexford Rd, Wexford Square Plaza, Brampton, ON

 Call Us: 905-495-9907

Does Your Pet Suffer From Seasonal Allergies?

April 17, 2014

dog in grass fieldSeasonal Allergies and Pets

As humans we can commiserate with each other over our stuffy noses and itchy eyes, but our pets also suffer a form of hay fever that becomes rampant in the spring. In cats and dogs, this allergic reaction is called atopy, or allergic dermatitis. 

What are some of the main contributing factors to seasonal allergies in pets?

  • tree pollens
  • grass pollens
  • feathers
  • plant fibres
  • fleas (yes, pets with seasonal allergies are also often allergic to the parasites)

Differently than you and I, pets react in an entirely different way, most often exhibiting persistently itchy skin. If you see felix of fido scratching, licking and biting in a never ending quest for relief, they probably are suffering from allergies. This constant attention to their skin often results in very painful sores that cause infection.

Common signs in pets of seasonal allergies include:

  • excessive scratching, licking and/or biting
  • rubbing against furniture and legs
  • rubbing their face on the floor, particularly on carpet
  • inflamed and tender areas of the skin
  • redness of body tissue, most often seen in the lips/gums, eyes, chin and paws
  • hair loss
  • open sores and hot spots
  • irritated ears, sometimes smelly if a yeast or bacterial infection is present

If you see these signs of suffering from seasonal allergies, a visit to your local veterinarian is in order to help them control their itching before the sores manifest. Your veterinarian will help you devise a care plan for your pet, to alleviate their discomfort and manage their environmental exposure.

Some ways to help your pet with seasonal allergies:

  • avoiding the allergen as much as possible, doing your best to shut it out of your home so your pet can find comfort indoors
  • soothing baths for the body and feet with a moisturising grain-free shampoo & conditioner to calm the skin and wash away the allergens that are on the skin and remove them from their coat, which can otherwise trap them close to the body
  • balanced diet specific to your pet’s needs, consult your veterinarian
  • vacuum carpets and furniture to remove allergens
  • wash your pet’s bedding and toys

If you feel that your pet may be suffering from allergies or if you know that they have in the past, consult your veterinarian today to see how you can help your pet enjoy the warmer weather too.

Preventing Cat Fights

September 26, 2017
The loud and frightening cat fight has been experienced at least a couple times by every owner. Here are some reasons why it happens and how to stop it.

Helping Your Pets Adjust To The Back-To-School Routine

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It’s not only the kids that have to adapt to the new changes school has to offer, dogs and cats too. Separation anxiety is very common in pets, luckily there are some tricks that will ease their minds.

Dog Of The Month - Akita

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The soft coat of the Akita makes them the perfect cuddle buddy, with some stern training that is.

Rabies In Ontario

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Ontario has the most confirmed cases of rabies infections in Canada. Learn about the disease and what you can do to protect yourself and your pets.

Dog of the month – Airedale Terrier

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Originally from England since the 1800’s, the Airedale Terrier’s were breed to hunt badgers and otters.

Picking The Perfect Name For Your Pet

July 21, 2017
Picking out a name when welcoming a pet into the family can be a very difficult process. It’s one of the first things to accomplish and can be harder than it seems.

Dog Breed of the Month - Afghan Hound

June 29, 2017
This breed is very majestic and ancient. They are known for their speed. Afghan Hounds actually hunt by speed and sight and not by scent and were bred to track animals like deer and gazelles. They can reach a speed of 65 kilometres an hour. Like a race horse, it’s all in the hips. It is in their nature to chase what they see so a fenced in yard is recommended along with some monitoring. One hour of physical activity a day is required.

Summer Heat Warnings

June 12, 2017
Provide clean and cool drinking water that’s placed near some shade. It is never a bad idea to place several bowls of water, and space for your pet to walk around in the shade. Even placing a chair for your dog or cat to lay under helps provide a shade.

Be Your Own Doggy Dentist

June 9, 2017
Just like you and I, dogs are prone to cavities and although their mouths are said to be cleaner than humans they can still develop tartar, plaque buildup, gingivitis or other problems other than bad breath.

Exercise Essentials

May 31, 2017
A pet is most motivated to play and let out some energy when they are in the company of their owner. A playmate is always loved. If neighbours have another dog, go to a park as a group and increase the want to move. Your community might also have some planned activities, or a local dog walker.
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