Spring allergies in dogs on the North Shore

VCA notes that allergens can be absorbed through the skin and that frequent bathing may reduce how much a dog takes in. A full bath after every walk is not realistic, but the same reasoning supports a quick wipe of everything that brushes the grass: the paws, between the toes, the legs and the belly. Use plain water or an unscented wipe your vet is happy with, and dry the feet so they are not left damp.

Timing helps too. The New Hampshire agency advises people with pollen allergies to limit time outside on high-count days, especially in the morning, when pollen is most concentrated. For a dog that can mean a short morning loop on bad days with the long walk later. While the beach calendar allows it, a low-tide walk has far less grass than a trail edge: Wingaersheek takes dogs on odd-numbered days through April 30 and Rockport's beaches until June 1, at the time of writing.

Allergic itch turns into infection easily, and Merck notes that secondary skin and ear infections often make the signs worse. See your vet if the skin is broken or weeping from scratching, if an ear smells or the dog shakes its head constantly, if hair is missing in patches, or if the itch keeps the dog awake. VCA describes reddish-brown saliva staining on itchy areas, a clue to how much a dog has been licking. A wet, raw patch that spreads fast may be a hot spot, which is a same-day vet call.

Sudden swelling of the face or muzzle, hives over the body or any trouble breathing is a different problem; VCA lists those among the signs of an allergic reaction to an insect bite or sting, which can progress to anaphylactic shock. Call your vet or the nearest emergency hospital straight away; Massachusetts Veterinary Referral Hospital in Woburn is open 24 hours. Medication for itch is your vet's decision, so ask your vet, and never give a medicine meant for people.