Consideration For Grass When You Have Dogs With Allergies

Having a dog with hives, a runny nose, and watery eyes that cannot do anything but scratch himself is not a happy event for anyone. Facing the possibility that your dog may be allergic to something as common as grass may be discouraging and seem like an insurmountable problem.

There are, however, some factors to consider that can be helpful when you have a dog with grass allergies. 

Dogs with grass allergies show seasonal atopic dermatitis. The dog may be treated with medicines or have allergy shots to counteract the symptoms. During peak months, the dog’s exposure to the grass should be limited. The grass can be replaced or managed to reduce allergies. 

There are several techniques to help a dog that is allergic to grass. Medications and treatment programs can help the dog cope with symptoms. At the same time, environmental management aims to limit the dog’s exposure to the allergen. 

How Can It Tell If My Dog Is Allergic To Grass?

Dogs with grass allergies show various symptoms depending on the severity. They may have:

  • Itchy feet that they constantly chew or lick
  • Red, irritated skin on their belly, groin, and armpits that may or may not be accompanied by a rash.
  • They may have itchy muzzles and chins that they rub on the ground, making the irritation worse. 
  • Some dogs have watery, red eyes that may show some eyelid swelling.
  • In severe grass allergies, the dogs may sneeze, have excessive mucus production, and have respiratory distress. 
  • Dogs with grass allergies have seasons in the year when the allergy typically worsens, even if allergy symptoms are permanently present.  

What Kind Of Grass Are Dogs Not Allergic To?

Dogs with grass allergies react to the pollen released from the grasses. Most people do not think of grass as having pollen. Grass pollen consists of tiny particles that are difficult to see with the naked eye. 

Dogs allergic to grass have seasonal flares of symptoms that coincide with the season when grass produces and releases pollen. The dog may show symptoms at other times of the year when his immune system reacts to contact with the grass and its sap.

All grass produces pollen, but some make larger quantities, and some are more allergenic than others. Grasses that perpetuate predominantly by runners often have less pollen. 

An excellent choice for dogs with a grass allergy is Cynodon dactylon, a couch grass also known as `Greenlees Park grass. This grass is recommended by an Australian veterinary dermatology clinic. 

Veterinary dermatology clinics can do a skin test to check if your dog is allergic to this grass before planting it.   

Another low allergen grass suitable for use as a lawn is Sir Walter DNA Certified Buffalo grass. This grass species spreads utilizing creeping stolons and rhizomes and seldom produces seed heads. This buffalo grass has a smooth-edged leaf that does not irritate the dog’s skin during contact. 

Managing Grass To Reduce Your Dog’s Allergies

Keeping the grass cut short will prevent the growth and development of flowers and seed heads. This, in turn, prevents pollens from being released from the grass. Less pollen means fewer allergy symptoms for your dog.

When the grass is cut, use a garden vacuum or blower to remove the grass cuttings from the lawn. Keeping the grass moist will reduce the amount of dust given off by the grass, which can help keep your dog’s allergies in check.

Non-Grass Alternatives For Allergic Dogs

If your dog has severe grass allergies and you are tired of caring for your grass, it may be worthwhile to consider some non-grass alternatives for the garden. 

Artificial grass or turf has become a popular choice for people who prefer to have no grass but still want the aesthetic of a lovely green background. Artificial grass comes in broad sections that are secured over the soil. It is cleaned by simply hosing it off.

Artificial grass is a good choice for a dog with grass allergies. It is often used in kennelling facilities due to its easy cleaning and low allergenic potential.     

Wood chips are another option for covering open areas of soil. They provide a good mulch for the ground, holding moisture with minimal dust. Wood chips are comfortable for dogs to lie and walk on.

Some people have tried gravel as a grass replacement. There are some problems with using gravel in large areas of the garden. It is not comfortable for a dog to walk on, and even pea gravel can get stuck in their paws between their toes. 

Large pieces of non-uniform gravel tend to have sharp edges which are incredibly uncomfortable to walk or lie on. In addition, the sharp edges may traumatize the skin on the paws, giving rise to secondary bacterial infections.   

What Helps Dogs With Grass Allergies?

Dogs with grass allergies benefit from the use of medicines such as:

  • Antihistamines such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) and others.
  • Corticosteroids such as prednisone, dexamethasone, and prednisolone.
  • Cyclosporines such as Atopica.
  • Immune system modulators like Apoquel.
  • Allergen Specific Immunotherapy,  also known as allergy shots.
  • Cytopoint, which imitates natural antibodies and interferes with the itch signal transmission in nerves.

Soothing shampoos and creams can also help reduce allergies. Frequent bathing with products that do not strip natural skin oils is beneficial for dogs with grass allergies.

What Natural Remedy Will Help My Allergic Dog?

Natural remedies for grass allergy in dogs include omega oils given as daily supplements. Probiotics help maintain healthy skin and a balanced immune system. Probiotics soaps may prove helpful in treating raw dermatitis.

Aloe vera is a natural plant product that soothes inflamed skin and promotes healing. It can even be grown in the garden if you have a suitable climate. Alternatively, aloe vera is available at most health shops and pharmacies. 

Conclusion

Dogs with grass allergies can be managed through veterinary help and home remedies. Managing the environment can limit the dog’s exposure to grass pollens. 

References

https://www.animaldermatologyclinic.com.au/adc-news/newgrass-but-what-to-use
https://www.jimboombaturf.com.au/turf-tips-low-allergy-lawn/
https://cennutrition.com.au/grass-allergy-in-dogs/
https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/skin/can-dogs-be-allergic-grass
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