My Dog Is Allergic To Grass | What To Do & Treatment
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Not every pet owner can find out if their dog is allergic to grass.
If you did, you and your dog probably are very close companions.
But did you know that dogs are allergic to grass until your dog had to go through this condition?
Well, Grass allergies are common if your dog keeps eating grass, romp around, and sleep on the grass.
The immune system of the dog is working to secure the body but when it botches non-harmful natural substances as dangers, that’s where the unfavorable condition occurs.
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What To Do If Your Dog Is Allergic To Grass
Like humans, dogs also have sensitive skin which causes seasonal allergies.
As an owner of your pet, I know that you’re worried to see your pet is suffering and being sick and if your dog is allergic to grass.
What Can You Do For Your Dog?
Here’s a list of things that you can do to help him feel better without taking him to a veterinarian:
- Limit your dog’s exposure to grass
No matter if your dog loves to wander and play on grass, you have to limit its movements for a while if you notice that it is getting skin allergies.
I know you don’t like to do it because your dog loves freedom and walks around the garden but if you pray for your dog’s health, you just have to do it even for a couple of weeks.
The grass allergies can develop in all species of dogs but bulldogs, pugs, retrievers, setters, terriers, German shepherds are more likely to get allergies and skin infections.
If your dog is from one of these breeds, you have to think before letting him often go outside during spring and summer.
The ways that your dog gets allergies when it goes outside are by licking its paws and fur with pollen on it, inhaled into the lungs and absorbed through the skin.
By minimizing your dog’s outdoor activities you can prevent it from falling into misery.
- Wipe your dog’s skin before it enters inside or brushes its fur
The cleanliness of your dog’s skin leads to a healthy life and fewer sufferings.
Before your dog enters the home after a playful time on the grass, you can wipe its paws, skin, and fur by using a damp cloth.
It helps to remove the grass and pollen which are stuck in the body of your dog.
Also, if it has lots of hair, keep frequently brushing.
If possible, brush its fur every time it enters inside because brushing will help to get rid of skin allergens.
- Use Aloe Vera
We know that Aloe Vera is healing and moisturizing our skin when it is sunburned or itching as it helps and speeds up the rashes caused by allergies.
It can say that dogs have very sensitive skin compared to humans because it’s only 3-5 cells thick while human skin is at least 10 – 15 cells thick.
So, it’s obvious that if the Aloe Vera heals human skin allergies and rashes, it will not fail to do the same for your dog’s skin.
Using Aloe Vera is very simple.
Either you can buy it as a gel from a pharmacy or you can use it fresh if you have grown it in your garden.
First examine in which part of the dog’s body has the rash, itchiness, or red patches.
Gently apply the gel around the examined area.
Please avoid any Aloe Vera beauty cosmetics that contain alcohol or other chemicals because it can worsen the allergic condition.
- Use Omega 3
Omega 3 is a class of essential fatty acids that are found naturally in fish oils.
It includes Alpha-linolenic acid, Eicosapentaenoic acid, and Docosahexaenoic acid.
The use of Omega 3 helps to reduce inflammation and soothe itching skin.
Most significantly, Omega 3 benefits the immune system of dogs.
It gives positive effects on the dogs who are suffering from harmful allergic effects and atopy.
It doesn’t only need to be your dog sick to give Omega 3 because on one hand, it plays a vital role in the nutrition of dogs, and on the other hand, it acts as a source of energy.
Make sure you give the right dose of Omega 3 to your dog because it can cause side effects like diarrhea.
Also, do not give Omega 3 with aspirin as they might experience blood thinning and starts to feel bad.
- Mix olive oil into your dog’s meal
You can easily find olive oil in your home, which is a quick remedy to heal your dog’s skin allergy and inflammation.
Since olive oil is rich in antioxidants, it stands against cell damage.
But it does not give better results if you apply it on the dog’s skin because not like humans, they lick whatever the ointment applied to their body.
As there’s no harm in adding olive oil into the dog’s food you can mix it up before providing it to consume.
Though the doctors say olive oil is effective for allergies caused by grass, there are instances that your dog may show the signs of diarrhea or vomiting if it consumes too much olive oil.
So, make sure that you only add a tablespoon or two to your dog’s food once or twice a week to treat the rashes that appear from grass allergies.
- Apply lavender oil to your dog’s skin
Another natural remedy for a dog’s itchy skin is Lavender oil.
Lavender oil is valuable, calming, and comforting aroma-therapeutic oil.
It contains anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties which will relieve your dog from all the discomforts he’s facing at this moment.
Lavender oil can reduce the redness, itchiness of your dog’s skin and cure the scratched and irritated skin.
If you’re thinking about how to apply lavender oil on your pup, don’t worry it’s a very simple process.
First, get very small drops of oil onto your hand and start rubbing from the dog’s ear, under the neck, and then skin.
Give your dog a pleasant massage for like 15-30 minutes.
Lavender oil not only protects your dog from grass allergies but also flea allergies.
Nevertheless, if your dog is far more sensitive to essential oils, dilute lavender oil according to the instructions of the veterinarian because if your dog ingests a larger amount of lavender oil, it will worsen the existing health condition of your dog.
- Vitamin E
Vitamin E is another simple remedy that you can do for your dog’s skin allergies.
It’s essential in developing a strong immune system in your pet’s body.
It’s not very difficult to find Vitamin E as it’s available to purchase in most pharmacies and even in food stores.
There are ways in which you can give vitamin E to your dog.
For instance, as a capsule, as oil to apply on its skin or mix with food.
Now let’s see which way is the easiest and will show the results soon.
Applying the capsule on the irritated or itching area is easy because you just only have to break it and rub it directly on the skin but make sure that your dog will not lick it as soon as you finish applying.
If it licks it, you’ll end up getting no results and your dog will not feel better.
You can add vitamin E oil to the bathtub of your dog, mix it with water, and let it stay in the tub more than usual.
So, you don’t have to doubt whether your dog licked the applied capsule or not.
Mixing vitamin E with your dog’s food is also effective.
You just have to add vitamin E oil to your dog’s meal once or twice a week.
As vitamin E increases the immunity system of your dog, it can protect itself from itchy and red skin caused due to grass allergies.
- Bathe your dog often
You may have a very busy lifestyle, or you don’t feel like bathing your dog every day.
That’s reasonable and yes, it is also not too good to bathe your dog every day.
Maybe your dog doesn’t like to bathe or else it has a fear of water.
But I think it will be better for your dog’s health if you could take it to a bath at least once a week.
Also remember, if your dog stays outside more than inside, one bath for a week is not enough.
It’s more likely that the dogs get allergic conditions when they are unclean and not bathe for a long time.
Yet the dog’s breed and the weather conditions also affect the bathing schedule and you have to decide when to take it to a bath.
Bathing helps to increase the hygiene of your dog and it’s the excellent chance that you get to check the unusual scratches, dry areas, itchy skin of your pet because it is easy to detect when your dog’s hair is wet and flat.
- Use a dog shampoo
In the competitive market, you’ll find various dog shampoo and conditions to use for different skin conditions.
If you use shampoo, it will lessen the times that your dog gets allergic infections.
Here is a brief description of the shampoo that you can buy for your dog.
As I mentioned earlier, Lavender oil can treat the itchy skin of your dog and you can also purchase it as shampoo from the market.
“Pet pleasant lavender Oatmeal shampoo” is one of the best that you can recommend for your dog.
It protects and combats the skin irritations and rashes of your pet’s skin.
It is also safe, effective and the pretty smell of the shampoo may give your dog a very relaxing bath time.
It’s no doubt that this shampoo will make your dog feel less itchy.
“Vet’s best allergy itch relief dog shampoo” is also an effective shampoo for dogs who are allergic to grass.
This shampoo is ideal for dogs who suffer from skin infections and seasonal allergies.
As this shampoo is formulated by using natural ingredients such as oatmeal, Neem oil, Chamomile, and Tea tree oil it will not bring any negative results for your dog.
Likewise, various shampoo brands contain oatmeal, Aloe Vera, and other natural ingredients.
You can ask your veterinarian or pharmacist about a better resulting shampoo that’s available in your area.
- Chop off flowering grass and other pollen creators
Besides the things that you can do for your dog to feel better when it is allergic to grass, you also can create a favorable garden for your dog.
A pet owner should avoid the plants such as bottle brush, male juniper, the crown of thorns, purple leaf velvet plant, primrose tree, bermudagrass with flowers, oak, lily flowers, male red maple pollen flower, and so on in his or her garden.
All these plants, flowers have pollen that spreads here and there through the wind and makes your dog itch, scratch, and sneeze.
Also, remove the grass from your garden which has flowers on the top because if your dog sleeps or walks in that area that pollen will stick in your dog’s coat.
As long-term medications for allergic conditions are not good for your dog, you have to spend time to recreate your garden with favorable plants for your pet.
You don’t have to treat your dog only with home remedies.
If you think it’s better to consult a veterinarian, go for it.
If you think your dog should do a standard medical treatment, yes do it.
Because you are the parent of your pet and you can do anything to make him feel better.
Standard Medical Treatments
Here is a list of standard medical treatments for grass allergy which is also known as atopy.
- Antihistamine
Antihistamine is a comparatively inexpensive drug that is often used to treat allergies.
It is available to purchase over the counter at human pharmacies.
Benadryl (diphenhydramine), Claritin (loratadine), Zyrtec (cetirizine) are frequently used as Antihistamine.
If you ask yourself what Antihistamine does, it acts as an armament against allergies, itching ailment, and reduces the release of histamine.
Nonetheless, follow your pet’s veterinarian’s instructions because the dog’s health and pregnancy should be examined before prescribing the medicine.
Most important to know that Antihistamine causes drowsiness and nausea for some dogs.
Once you’re ready to give the drug to your pet, you will find it difficult because they are more likely to avoid food if they notice the tablets are mixed into it.
Simply, you can hide the tablet inside anything that your dog loves to eat.
For instance, a piece of sausage, the cheese will work as the dog eats it in “one mouth”.
- Atopica (Cyclosporine) capsules
Atopica is an oral solution for dogs who suffer from eczema which is an allergic, itchy skin condition.
Atopica aims at the root of the issue to treat the itching and cracked skin of your pet.
It takes about two weeks to start working and then maximum effects show within four to six weeks.
But the capsules should not be given to the dogs less than six months without the prescriptions of a veterinarian.
Also, it is important to feed the medicine without mixing it with food preferably before 1-2 hours of a meal.
After taking this oral solution your dog starts to feel better because it provides the relief that your dog needs.
Slight side effects that can arise from Atopica are tiredness, lack of energy, vomiting, and reduced appetite.
You don’t’ have to overly worry if you notice any of these conditions as they are common in the first two, three days.
But, if it gets severe and continues to be an issue, take your dog as soon as possible to the veterinarian.
- Depo-Medrol
Depo-Medrol is also known as Methylprednisolone is an injectable steroid for your canine friend.
It is usable for allergic dermatitis, dry eczema, and pollen sensitivities.
The average intramuscular dose of Depo-Medrol for a dog is 20mg but it may differ according to the severity of the condition and the size of your dog.
After giving a shot of Depo-Medrol, you will notice your pet is seemingly excessive for thirst and will excrete urine more than usual.
Also, your dog will gain more weight as Depo-Medrol increases the appetite.
But remember, Depo-Medrol is used with caution in pets suffering from heart diseases, diabetes, tuberculosis, and other considerable sicknesses.
Most importantly, you should not give Depo-Medrol to your pet for a long period without the advice of your veterinarian.
- Prednisone
Prednisone is a Corticosteroid that is very effective for dogs suffering from allergies and itchy skin caused by grass.
The tablet is available as 1 mg, 05mg, 10mg, 20mg, and 50mg to purchase from human pharmacies and online.
But the usual dose of Prednisone that should be given to your dog is determined based on the health condition, size, and weight.
The pet’s response to the Prednisone should always keep under inspection because there are possible side effects including nausea, fatigue, insomnia, and lethargy.
Don’t panic if an overdose happens, seek veterinary medical service as soon as possible.
- Triamcinolone Acetonide
Triamcinolone Acetonide is also known as Panalog and Vetalog is a powerful steroid that is effective to treat allergic conditions and itchiness that occur in your dog’s skin.
This drug is available to purchase as a tablet, syrup, or as an ointment.
If the veterinarian suggests it can provide via an injection to the dog.
The dosage differs according to the dog’s reaction and response to the treatment and it depends on the other health conditions of your dog.
Normally, the dose starts from 0.5 mg to 1 mg per one time but the vegetarian will decide when to give the next dose of medicine.
I don’t know how to tell but Triamcinolone Acetonide may cause numerous side effects like vomiting, increased blood pressure, reduced immune system functions, and panting.
- Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy shots are most effective in treating allergic conditions that are caused by trees, grass, and pollen.
In Immunotherapy, a small amount of allergen is injected into the skin of your dog.
But, the results of the Immunotherapy are not as quick as the consumption of tablets and applying ointments to the dog’s skin.
At least a year will take to realize the full results of this treatment and not helpful for your dog who’s suffering at this moment.
Even though it takes time to show the results, approximately half of the dogs receiving this treatment show positive outcomes.
If you’re worried about a secondary grass allergy, you can take your dog to a veterinarian for Immunotherapy as this method addresses the immune system of your sick dog rather than the oral drugs.
If the allergic condition can’t be controlled by Immunotherapy, the last option is immune suppressants which defeat the immune system and not respond to harmless allergens.
Final Thoughts
Ordinarily, dogs are allergic to grass as they have very sensitive skin.
My advice is not to panic when you find skin irritation, redness, or itching skin on your dog’s body.
Carefully look into your dog’s skin condition and find the best remedy or treatment for your dog out of the facts that I’ve above mentioned.
If your dog is allergic to grass, those allergies can be controlled and treated before getting worse.
There are rare instances that allergies couldn’t cure but I’m sure that your dog will not have to go through such a worse ailment.
Think wisely and decide what’s the best thing that you could do for your lovely pet.
Don’t let your dog suffer because the allergic conditions will not disappear naturally if you don’t treat them.
References:
https://ipupster.com/grass-allergies-in-dogs/
https://www.vivamunehealth.com/is-your-dog-allergic-to-grass/
https://dogtime.com/dog-health/50789-natural-remedies-dogs-seasonal-allergies#8
https://www.dogsnaturallymagazine.com/allergy-relief-for-dogs-top-ten-remedies/
https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/skin/can-dogs-be-allergic-grass
