Ginny Rentko VMD DACVIM
Leap Years CEO and Chief Veterinary Medical Officer
As a veterinary internal medicine specialist, I love seeing dogs excited for spring — more time outdoors, increased exercise, and dogs feeling that burst of outdoor vitality. At the same time, this is a period when some dogs need extra attention. Signs like more scratching, licking their paws nonstop, or simply showing subtle signs of discomfort are not minor nuisances but are indicators that warrant closer evaluation. These changes often reflect underlying inflammatory or hypersensitivity processes that benefit from early recognition and a more thoughtful workup.
Spring allergies (environmental atopic dermatitis triggered by pollen, grass, mold, and dust) are common. As dogs move into their adult and senior years, normal aging changes in the skin and immune system can make these allergies more noticeable or more severe. The skin becomes thinner and drier, the natural barrier weakens, and healing slows — so what might have been mild itching in a younger dog can turn into persistent discomfort. Interestingly, allergies can worsen or get better in older dogs, depending on the state of chronic inflammation, other concurrent diseases and the subtle coat changes that come with aging.
Five key signs that your dog may be dealing with spring allergies:
- Persistent scratching, especially on the belly, sides, or face.
- Constant licking or chewing at the paws — dogs pick up pollen on walks and lick to soothe the irritation.
- Red, irritated skin or hot spots that appear quickly.
- Increased head shaking or ear scratching — allergies frequently affect the ears too.
- Dull, dry coat with increased shedding —not to be confused with subtle coat changes associated with aging.
When aging plays a role
Even in healthy adult dogs, skin barrier function and immune efficiency gradually decline with age. This may make dogs more reactive to seasonal allergens and more prone to secondary infections related to the presence of chronic inflammation. Spotting the signs early helps prevent the problem from escalating.
What you can do to help
- Wipe your dog’s paws and belly with pet-safe wipes after every walk. Pollen tends to stick to the fur.
- Bathe regularly with a gentle, moisturizing shampoo – look for ingredients like oatmeal (soothing) or phytosphingosine (enhances the skin’s barrier). A strong skin barrier protects the body from allergens and irritants and helps lock in moisture.
- Consider adding omega-3 fatty acid supplements to support skin health.
- Consider starting a cellular health supplement like Leap Years to support overall vitality and healthy aging (starting with the cells).
- Schedule a veterinary check-up — your veterinarian can rule out other age-related conditions and recommend safe, effective options such as targeted anti-itch medications or long-term immunotherapy.
Don’t let spring allergies steal your dog’s joy. By recognizing these signs and acting early, you can keep your dog comfortable, active, and content during allergy season.
If your dog is showing any of these signs, I recommend scheduling a visit with your veterinarian. A thoughtful, tailored plan can make a meaningful difference in your dog’s comfort and ability to fully enjoy the longer spring days.
Give your dog the support they deserve this spring. Try Leap Years today and help them thrive from the inside out.
