As the weather begins to warm up across Central Queensland, many of us start enjoying more time outdoors. Unfortunately, we're not the only ones noticing the change in seasons. For many dogs (and even some cats), spring also marks the beginning of allergy season.
If your pet seems itchier than usual, is constantly licking their paws, or has recurring ear infections, allergies could be the culprit!
What are the Most Common Causes of Pet Allergies?
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Environmental allergies – grass, tree pollens, mould spores and dust mites can cause seasonal or year round allergies
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Flea allergies – can cause severe itching and hair loss
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Food allergies – specific proteins such as beef and chicken or other ingredients like dairy and wheat can cause skin allergies
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Contact allergies – certain fabrics, cleaning products and shampoos can severely irritate your pets skin
Pet allergies occur when a pet’s immune system overreacts to a typically harmless substance, treating it as a threat. This reaction leads to inflammation, itching, and other symptoms
Unlike people, who usually experience sneezing and watery eyes, dogs most commonly show allergies through their skin. Allergens come into contact with the skin, triggering inflammation and intense itching.
Signs Your Dog May Have Allergies
Every pet is different, but common signs include:
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Persistent scratching or chewing, excessive licking of the paws, red and inflamed skin, hotspots, hair loss
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Ear infections - frequent head shaking, scratching at ears, strong odours
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Face rubbing and excessive eye discharge
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Skin infections (pustules) caused by excessive scratching
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Digestive problems like frequent defaecation, diarrhoea or excessive gas
Many owners assume their dog simply has "itchy skin," but allergies are often an ongoing medical condition that requires long term management rather than something that will resolve on its own.
Why Spring Can Be Challenging in Queensland
Here in Queensland, our warmer climate means environmental allergens can be present for much of the year. While some pets experience flare-ups only during spring and summer, others may have symptoms throughout the year that worsen when pollen counts rise.
At Maraboon Vet Surgery, environmental allergies and atopy are the most common conditions we diagnose and manage. Some dogs only need occasional treatment, while others benefit from long-term allergy management plans tailored to their individual needs.
Don't Ignore the Itch
One of the biggest misconceptions is that scratching is "normal."
Unfortunately, every day your pet is itchy, their skin becomes more inflamed. This can lead to:
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Bacterial and yeast infections
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Chronic ear disease
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Thickened, damaged skin
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Reduced quality of life
The earlier we intervene, the easier it is to keep your pet comfortable and prevent secondary infections. There is no definite cure for allergies but they can be managed effectively with the right treatment plan.
What Can You Do At Home?
While allergies can't usually be cured, there are several simple steps that can help reduce flare-ups alongside veterinary treatment.
Wipe Down After Walks
Pollen collects on your dog's coat and paws. Using a damp cloth or pet-safe wipes after walks can help remove allergens before they irritate the skin.
Regular Bathing
Bathing with a gentle veterinary-recommended shampoo helps wash away pollen, soothe inflamed skin and support the skin's natural barrier. Avoid over-bathing with harsh shampoos, as these can dry the skin.
Stay Up to Date with Flea Prevention
Even pets with environmental allergies can also develop flea allergy dermatitis. Consistent flea and parasite prevention is essential all year round.
Keep Ears Clean
If your dog is prone to ear infections, regular ear cleaning (using products recommended by your veterinarian) can help reduce the build-up of wax and allergens.
Support Healthy Skin
A balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids may help support skin health and reduce inflammation as part of an overall allergy management plan. While nutritional supplements can benefit some pets, they should complement, not replace, veterinary diagnosis and treatment.
How Are Allergies Treated?
Every pet is different, so there is no "one-size-fits-all" solution.
Depending on your pet's symptoms, treatment may include:
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Medications: antihistamines, steroids and specialised medications like Apoquel/Cytopoint/Zenrelia
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Treatment for ear or skin infections
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Flea prevention
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Medicated shampoos and ointments
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Prescription diets (where food allergies are also suspected)
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Long-term allergy management plans
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Dermatologist referrals
Some pets benefit from allergy testing or referral for immunotherapy, particularly when symptoms are severe or difficult to control.
When Should You Book an Appointment?
If your pet is:
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Scratching more than usual
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Licking or chewing their paws frequently
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Developing recurrent ear infections
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Losing hair and/or skin scabbing
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Developing red or irritated skin
It's worth having them examined before symptoms become more severe.
Early treatment can make a significant difference to your pet's comfort and help prevent more serious skin disease.
We're Here to Help
Allergies can be frustrating for both pets and their owners, but with the right diagnosis and management plan, most pets can live happy, comfortable lives.
If you think your dog or cat may be suffering from seasonal allergies, our team at Maraboon Vet Surgery is here to help. We'll work with you to identify the cause of your pet's itching and create a treatment plan tailored to their individual needs.
Call our friendly team on 4987 6800 to book an appointment today and help your pet enjoy spring itch-free!