Pollen is a fine powder produced by certain plants during the spring, summer and autumn. This powder enters the air and is spread by the wind. In dogs, a pollen allergy is strictly seasonal, because the allergic reaction is triggered by the pollen of flowering grasses, trees and flowers.
When pollen enters the body through the skin or mucous membranes (such as the nose or eyes), the dog's immune system can consider it to be harmful. This leads to an excessive immune response, releasing substances such as histamine. This immune response causes the typical symptoms of a pollen allergy, such as itching, redness, sneezing and skin irritation.

Causes of pollen allergy in dogs

In dogs, the predisposition to pollen allergy is largely genetically determined and varies greatly per breed. Research shows that certain breeds have an increased risk of developing allergies, including the Golden Retriever, Labrador, Terriers, Vizsla, Rhodesian Ridgeback and Setters.
In addition, dogs are often sensitive to the same pollens as people, such as grass, tree and weed pollens. The first symptoms of a pollen allergy usually appear between the ages of 6 months and 3 years. In many cases, the symptoms increase over time because the immune system reacts more and more violently to exposure to allergens.

Symptoms of a pollen allergy

In humans, pollen allergens mainly cause respiratory complaints such as allergic rhinitis (hay fever) and asthma. In dogs, however, a pollen allergy mainly leads to skin complaints, better known as atopy or atopic dermatitis.

The most common symptom is severe itching. Dogs try to relieve this itching by excessive scratching, licking, biting or chewing, especially on the paws, armpits, ears and groin. This behaviour can lead to:

• Skin irritations and redness
• Bald spots and hair loss
• Scabbing and sores
• Secondary bacterial or fungal infections

In addition, dogs are often seen rubbing their faces and bodies against furniture, carpets or other surfaces to reduce the itching. If the allergy affects the ears, this can result in recurring ear infections.

My dog is showing symptoms of hay fever. What should I do?

If your dog suddenly shows one or more of the above symptoms, it is wise to make an appointment with your vet. Based on the symptoms, the medical history and a clinical examination, the vet can make a diagnosis and suggest a suitable treatment. In some cases, additional allergy testing, such as a skin test or blood test, may be necessary to identify the specific allergens.

In addition, as a dog owner, you can take a number of measures to reduce your dog's symptoms:

• Avoid exposure to pollen: Keep your dog indoors as much as possible during periods of high pollen concentration. Pollen concentrations are often highest in the early morning and late afternoon.
• Coat care: Wipe your dog's coat daily with a damp towel or rinse it with lukewarm water to remove attached pollen. Using a mild, soap-free dog shampoo with anti-itch properties can also help.
• Clean the living environment: Vacuum regularly and wash dog baskets, blankets and toys to reduce the amount of pollen in the house.
• Dietary supplements and supportive care: Supplements with skin-care and immune-supporting ingredients such as essential fatty acids, antioxidants and herbal extracts can contribute to healthier skin and fewer allergic reactions.

For dogs with pollen allergies, but also for dogs that simply need a little extra support for their skin and coat, Fur'fect can be a valuable supplement. This natural supplement, based on carefully selected herbs and plant extracts, has been developed to support healthy skin and a healthy coat.

In addition, the Magic Detox supplement can support the well-being of dogs with allergies. This purification treatment helps to reset the most important purification organs, which can lead to a reduction in allergy symptoms. The use of such supplements is a valuable addition to a broader approach to alleviating allergic symptoms.