Pet owners urged to keep dogs and cats indoors and out of gardens during hay fever season | Coventry Live

Cat and dog owners have been advised to keep their pets indoors until the “evenings” of the summer months when pollen levels are high. A spokesperson from Pets at Home explained that pets can experience symptoms similar to humans, such as sneezing, itchy eyes, runny noses and skin rashes.

Tree pollen, which affects about 25% of people, usually occurs from late March to mid-May. Most people are allergic to grass pollen, which has two peak seasons and runs from mid-May to July, according to the Met Office.

Weed pollen can be released at any time, but the season usually runs from late June to September, according to the Met Office. Veterinarian Olivia Anderson-Nathan, from the charity PDSA, recommends strategic timing for walks. “You can reduce symptoms by taking the dogs out when the pollen is low,” she suggested.

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Dog owners are advised to walk their pets at times when pollen levels are lower, such as early morning or late evening, Birmingham Live reports. Regularly washing and vacuuming your pet’s bedding to remove any accumulated pollen brought in from outdoor adventures will also help.

Adding skin supplements or oils to your pet’s diet can support skin health, potentially alleviating allergic reactions associated with hay fever. Everyday Paw Insurance recommends eliminating the allergen trigger and keeping your dog or cat indoors and out of the yard as much as possible during the summer months—especially during and after mowing the lawn.

They say to keep a close eye on pollen forecasts and make sure your dog stays indoors when pollen counts are high. Opt for early morning or late evening walks to avoid peak pollen times, usually around noon, and avoid areas with long grass or lots of weeds, they suggest.

To remove any pollen, wipe your pet’s fur and feet with a damp cloth, the agency recommends. Maintain a weed-free garden and consider replacing trees that produce large amounts of pollen, they add.

Additionally, they recommend washing your pet’s bedding regularly, vacuuming frequently, and removing indoor flowers and plants. Additionally, keep windows closed and consider using an air filter system, they say.

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