It's That Time of Year Again

Summer is here!  Unfortunately, this means it’s the start of allergies for one of my dogs.

My first dog, nicknamed The Belle (as in Southern Belle), is a rescued dog. She is a mix of unknown breeds, most likely Golden Retriever, Keeshond, and others. I tell you this because she is a beautiful girl with a gorgeous coat of fur. But within weeks, she will look like she has been through a war.

It started this week with the chewing of the paws. The only bright side is that it started two weeks later than last year. As the allergies irritate her more, she will progress to chewing on her lower legs. Because of this, she will lose clumps of hair. Then the sores will appear and she starts with the licking. The licking becomes incessant. My poor girl gets so stressed. Correcting her doesn’t help because she can’t stop the chewing and the licking.

Over the years, I’ve tried to figure out the exact cause without any luck. I’ve also tried anything that might offer her relief. I found a company on the internet called Skin-Eze that has all natural products. I use the shampoo on both dogs all year long and that does seem to help a bit during allergy season.  They also offer all natural supplements. However, my girl is so smart she will only take the tablets for about a day. After that, she no longer falls for peanut butter persuasion.

Furthermore, both dogs are wiped down anytime they have been outside relaxing in the grass. Paws are always wiped off whenever they come back inside. Baths become more frequent. I have also tried premium food products with all natural ingredients. But, once the symptoms appear, nothing seems to slow her down for the next few months.

For now, the next step is the medication I get her every year. The medicine is supposed to stop the itching sensation. There are, however, side effects including lack of energy and appetite. I won’t get my girl back until we are well into the Fall when her eyes get bright again. This is a sad and distressing time for those of us who have dogs that suffer with allergies. I cannot tell you how disturbing it is to see your dog damage herself. If anybody out there has found some remedy or solution, please be sure to share with the rest of us.