Helping Your Pet Handle Allergy Season in North Texas

Spring in North Texas is beautiful—flowers bloom, trees bud, and the weather warms up. But for many pets, this season also means one thing: allergies. Just like people, dogs and cats can suffer from seasonal allergies, especially in regions like Fort Worth where pollen levels tend to skyrocket during spring and early summer. If your furry friend is scratching, licking, or sneezing more than usual, it might be time to take a closer look at how seasonal changes are affecting them.

Here’s everything you need to know about helping your pet cope with allergy season in North Texas.

Common Allergy Symptoms in Pets

Allergies in pets don’t always present the same way they do in humans. While sneezing and watery eyes can occur, many dogs and cats show allergy symptoms through skin issues or changes in behavior. Here are some of the most common signs to watch for:

• Excessive scratching or licking (especially paws, ears, belly)
• Red or inflamed skin
• Hair loss or thinning fur
• Recurrent ear infections
• Watery eyes or sneezing
• Scooting or licking the rear
• Chronic paw chewing or face rubbing

If your pet is displaying these symptoms, allergies could be the culprit.

What Causes Pet Allergies in North Texas?

In North Texas, environmental allergens peak in the spring and fall. Some of the most common seasonal triggers include:

• Pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds – Oak, cedar, ragweed, and Bermuda grass are notorious offenders in this area.
• Dust and mold – These allergens increase as humidity rises and air circulation changes with warmer weather.
• Insects – Flea bites can cause allergic reactions in pets, especially in spring and summer.

In some cases, pets may also have year-round allergies to things like household cleaners, certain foods, or materials like carpet fibers and synthetic bedding.

How to Help Your Pet Manage Seasonal Allergies

1. Wipe Down After Outdoor Time

Pollen and other allergens easily cling to your dog’s fur, paws, and face when they go outside. Use a damp cloth or hypoallergenic pet wipes to gently clean their paws and coat after walks or backyard play. This simple step can significantly reduce the amount of allergens your pet brings into your home.

2. Bathe Regularly (But Gently)

Bathing your dog every 1-2 weeks with a gentle, oatmeal-based or medicated anti-itch shampoo can soothe irritated skin and wash away allergens. Be cautious not to over-bathe, as it can dry out their skin. For cats, regular grooming with a damp cloth and brushing can help manage allergens without the stress of a full bath.

Better yet—book a mobile grooming session with Aussie Pet Mobile Westoplex, where we use premium hypoallergenic shampoos and tailor our care to your pet’s unique skin and coat needs. Our quiet, one-on-one service is perfect for allergy-prone or anxious pets.

3. Vacuum and Clean Bedding Frequently

Allergens like pollen and dust settle on surfaces and fabrics quickly. Vacuum your floors and furniture often (especially if your pet lounges on the couch), and wash pet bedding weekly in hot water. Consider using air purifiers with HEPA filters in rooms where your pets spend the most time to reduce airborne allergens.

4. Monitor Your Pet’s Diet

Sometimes what looks like seasonal allergies can actually be food-related or worsened by diet. If your pet’s symptoms persist year-round or worsen during certain meals, talk to your vet about an elimination diet or switching to a hypoallergenic formula. Omega-3 fatty acids and supplements like quercetin can also help reduce inflammation and allergic reactions.

5. Keep Up With Flea Prevention

Insect allergies—especially flea bites—can mimic or compound pollen allergies. Even indoor pets can be affected if fleas are carried in on clothing or other pets. Use a veterinarian-recommended flea prevention regimen year-round to avoid unnecessary irritation.

When to Call the Vet

While mild symptoms can often be managed at home, it’s important to consult your veterinarian if:

• Symptoms worsen or don’t improve with home care
• Your pet has raw or bleeding skin
• There’s a noticeable change in appetite, energy, or behavior
• Recurring ear infections or hot spots develop

Your vet can run allergy tests, prescribe medications like antihistamines or corticosteroids, or even develop a custom allergy serum for desensitization therapy.

Bonus Tips for Fort Worth Pet Parents

Living in North Texas means staying proactive during high pollen months (typically March through June and again in the fall). Here are some localized tips:

• Check local pollen counts daily – Apps like Pollen.com or WeatherBug can alert you to high allergy days.
• Walk your dog early or late in the day – Pollen levels tend to peak mid-morning and afternoon.
• Avoid grassy parks during peak bloom – Stick to paved walking trails or paths during the worst allergy days.
• Book grooming in April and May – Regular deshedding and cleansing from a mobile groomer like Aussie Pet Mobile Westoplex can make a big difference in managing coat-related allergens.

Keep Your Pet Comfortable and Happy

Allergy season doesn’t have to mean misery for your pet. With a few extra precautions and consistent care, your dog or cat can enjoy springtime as much as you do. Stay observant, keep up with hygiene, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your vet—or your trusted mobile groomers at Aussie Pet Mobile Westoplex—for extra support.

Want to help your pet feel better this allergy season? Book a stress-free, in-home grooming session with us today and give them the gentle relief they deserve. 🐾