One of the most common physical ailments in the Florida area, allergies are a nuisance for people and pets alike this time of the year. Fortunately, relieving your dog's symptoms is not the challenge it may at first seem.
An allergic response occurs when the immune system attacks a foreign invader, resulting in increased inflammation and mucus production as the body tries to ward off something it perceives to be a threat. The four standard symptoms of canine allergies are sneezing, itching, tearing, and paw licking (akin to a human rubbing its eyes). Usually this "invader" is a common food, plant, or substance, and so the body is exposed to it again and again, making it difficult to relieve uncomfortable symptoms.
Treatment is most effective when pursued from the basis that an allergy is not the root cause of the symptoms it manifests; rather, an allergy is a symptom that flares up when the body's immune system is so compromised it becomes sensitive to things it should not naturally be sensitive to. Allergies are not genetic-if they were, then why do they appear at some points in our lives and disappear at others? How, then, could we be "allergic" to substances we have never come in contact with? How could the number of things we are supposedly "allergic" to increase over time? Most canine allergies are the result of a nutritional deficiency, caused by either the diet itself or a lack of proper supplementation. When the diet does not provide what the body needs, the immune system is compromised and begins to shut down. In the dog's weakened state, symptoms that would be short-lived in a healthy animal become chronic, and are given the name "allergies." The good news is that allergies can be cleared up over time as the diet is altered to meet the animal's specific needs. Dietary modification often entails supplementation, first in the form of additional adrenal support from herbs or a glandular, in order to boost energy and the immune response to stimulate healing.
Herbal supplementation is extremely versatile and can be ingested or applied topically to treat symptoms.
For example, Marigold is effective in treating allergy-related skin problems, and Echinacea can help relieve the anxiety created by continual scratching.
Specific herbal blends have been used to strengthen the immune system, prevent fleas, ticks, and other bugs, and replace heartworm medication.
Essential oils are another powerful tool to use for dogs. Please note, however, that because dogs will lick whatever is applied to them off of their paws and coat, it is extremely important that only therapeutic-grade oils are used. Although recommendations must be individualized, in general, diluted applications of lavender will soothe the skin, diffusing peppermint or basil through the air will clear the sinuses, lemongrass will ease aching muscles, and custom blends can prevent fleas and bugs that may exacerbate symptoms. When herbs and essential oils are used to complement sound nutrition, your dog will soon be on the road to optimum health.
Although unpleasant, the pollen and mold-filled months do not need to be agony for your or the four-legged ones you love. With a few natural tools at your fingertips, the summer months look comfortable indeed!
Jan Shultis is a Nutritionist and Instructor in Naturopathic Wellness for People and Animals.