As spring and summer bloom across British Columbia, many pet owners begin to notice an unfortunate pattern: sneezing, scratching, licking, red eyes, and irritated skin in their beloved dogs. These are all telltale signs of seasonal allergies in dogs—a condition that affects nearly 10% of dogs in Canada, especially during peak pollen seasons.
At North Care Animal Hospital, located conveniently on Marine Drive in North Vancouver and near West Vancouver, we specialize in diagnosing and treating dog seasonal allergies with personalized, compassionate care. Our walk-in veterinary services and in-home vet visits offer accessible solutions for busy pet parents.
This guide outlines expert tips to help you identify, treat, and manage seasonal allergies in dogs, ensuring long-lasting relief for your pet.
What Causes Seasonal Allergies in Dogs?
Just like humans, dogs react to environmental allergens such as:
Tree, grass, and weed pollen
Mold spores
Dust mites
Flea bites and dander
Airborne pollutants
Dogs often absorb allergens through their skin and respiratory system, leading to allergic dermatitis, sneezing, and inflammation. At our Pet Allergy and Dermatology Clinic, we see a sharp rise in canine allergy cases during the warmer months, especially from April to October.
Signs of Seasonal Allergies in Dogs
Use the table below to help identify symptoms associated with seasonal dog allergies:
| Symptom | Severity | Common in Allergy Season? |
|---|---|---|
| Excessive scratching | High | Yes |
| Red, inflamed skin | High | Yes |
| Constant licking (especially paws) | Moderate | Yes |
| Ear infections | Moderate to High | Yes |
| Sneezing and watery eyes | Moderate | Yes |
| Bald patches on coat | Low to Moderate | Sometimes |
| Scooting or rubbing face | Moderate | Yes |
If your dog exhibits more than three of these symptoms during spring or fall, it may be time to consult a North Vancouver veterinarian to assess for seasonal allergies.
Top Treatments for Seasonal Allergies in Dogs
1. Antihistamines and Prescription Medications
Veterinarians often prescribe dog allergy medications like Apoquel, Cytopoint injections, or antihistamines such as Benadryl. These medications target histamine responses and reduce itching, inflammation, and other allergic reactions.
Important: Never medicate your dog without veterinary approval. Dosages vary based on weight and breed.
2. Medicated Baths and Hypoallergenic Shampoos
Regular bathing with veterinary-formulated shampoos can remove allergens from your dog’s coat and calm irritated skin. Look for shampoos with ingredients like:
Oatmeal
Chlorhexidine
Aloe vera
Ceramides
We often recommend a weekly bath during peak allergy seasons for maximum relief.
3. Allergen-Specific Immunotherapy (Allergy Shots)
For chronic cases, allergy shots (immunotherapy) are the most effective long-term treatment. After diagnostic testing, our pet dermatology team creates customized serums that help desensitize your dog to specific allergens over time.
This treatment is ideal for dogs suffering from recurring seasonal allergy flare-ups and can reduce symptoms by up to 80% over 6–12 months.
4. Air Quality and Allergen Control at Home
Managing seasonal dog allergies starts in the home. Tips to reduce allergen exposure include:
Using HEPA filters in your HVAC systems
Cleaning bedding weekly with hypoallergenic detergents
Keeping grass trimmed and avoiding long walks during high pollen hours (early morning and dusk)
Wiping your dog’s paws and coat with pet-safe wipes after outdoor play
If you live in West Vancouver or nearby, you can schedule an in-home vet consultation to inspect possible allergen sources in your living space.
5. Diet and Supplements
An anti-inflammatory diet can improve your dog’s immune response. Ask your vet about hypoallergenic dog food options or limited-ingredient diets that exclude common allergens like:
Chicken
Wheat
Soy
Corn
Dairy
Supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids, quercetin, and probiotics can also boost your dog’s resistance to allergens.
When Should You See a Veterinarian?
You should visit a veterinary clinic if your dog:
Has symptoms lasting more than 7 days
Shows signs of skin infection or hair loss
Has frequent ear infections
Scratches until they bleed
Our hospital in North Vancouver is a short drive for residents in West Vancouver. We proudly serve both communities and offer walk-in services 7 days a week from 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM. You don’t need an appointment—just walk in, and our caring team will be ready to help.
Prefer personalized care at home? Our mobile veterinary team can treat your pet right where they’re most comfortable.
Why Choose North Care Animal Hospital?
At North Care Animal Hospital, we provide expert, compassionate care for dogs suffering from seasonal allergies. Here’s what sets us apart:
On-site pet dermatology & allergy lab
Customized immunotherapy programs
Advanced diagnostics including skin scraping and blood tests
Same-day walk-in services
In-home veterinary care across North and West Vancouver
We’ve helped hundreds of dogs get relief from allergy symptoms and enjoy a more active, itch-free life. Whether your pet needs simple antihistamines or a long-term allergy plan, our team is here to support every step.
Call Us Today for Allergy Relief
Don’t let seasonal dog allergies ruin your pet’s quality of life. Schedule a consultation or take advantage of our walk-in clinic in North Vancouver.
📍 1061 Marine Drive, Unit #101, North Vancouver, BC V7P 1S6
📞 604-984-1464
📩 northcareanimalhospital@gmail.com
Let us help your dog breathe easier, itch less, and enjoy life again. Visit our Pet Allergy & Dermatology page to learn more or walk in today.