TAKE THE ESP TEST. 3 SIGNS THAT YOUR PET MAY HAVE FALL ALLERGIES By Dr Nancy Peterson at Ingersoll Animal Hospital Like people, dogs can be allergic to ragweed, grass, pollens, molds and dust mites. Fall seasonal allergies in Des Moines generally start mid-August and continue thru mid-November. Humans’ seasonal environmental allergies are typically shown by sneezing, running nose, and red irritated watery eyes but when a dog is affected by seasonal environmental allergies the typical symptoms are much different.

What are the signs of seasonal environmental allergies in dogs?

The ESP Test – which stands for Ears, Skin and Paws – is a simple check you can do to determine if your dog is showing symptoms of seasonal environmental allergies. Dogs may show 1 or all 3 of the signs. Ears – Fact: Seasonal Allergies Can Cause Ear Infections When to Visit Your Des Moines Veterinarians

1. Strong Odor
2. Discharge
3. Shaking the head
4. Scratching the ears
5. Reoccurring infections

Skin- Fact: Seasonal Allergies are a Major Cause of Skin Infections When to Visit Your Des Moines Veterinarians

1. Itching
2. Licking
3. Red or inflamed skin
4. Skin lesions
5. Rubbing against furniture
6. Hair loss

Paws- Fact: Itchy paws can be a sign of allergies. It can be the same thing you are allergic to! When to Visit Your Des Moines Veterinarians

1. Itching
2. Redness or soreness on the paws
3. Licking leading to hair loss
4. Discoloration of the coat from licking

So if you’ve noticed that your dog has ESP and is scratching more often, has ear infections or any other skin issues flaring up this fall we’d encourage you to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced Des Moines veterinarians at Ingersoll Animal Hospital. Our Veterinarians will work with you to quickly get your pet more comfortable and back to normal health as soon as possible.