Spring brings sunshine, blooming flowers, and more opportunities to spend time outdoors with your pets. But for many dogs and cats in Richmond and surrounding areas like Rosenberg, Sugar Land, and Katy, TX, it also introduces a wave of allergens that can lead to discomfort. Sneezing, itchy skin, and paw licking are just some of the signs that your furry companion may be struggling with spring allergies.

At Embrace Veterinary Care, we know how frustrating seasonal allergies can be—for pets and their people. That’s why we’re here to help you understand the triggers, recognize the symptoms, and take practical steps to manage your pet’s allergies this season.

What Causes Spring Allergies in Pets?

Just like humans, pets can develop allergies when their immune systems overreact to everyday substances. In spring, the most common environmental allergens include:

• Tree and grass pollen
• Mold spores in soil, leaves, or mulch
• Dust mites
• Flea bites or flea saliva

While some allergens are outdoors, many make their way inside through open windows or on your clothes and your pet’s fur. Once inside, they can trigger allergic reactions, especially in pets with sensitive skin or immune systems.

Common Allergy Symptoms in Pets

Spring allergies often show up as skin issues rather than respiratory symptoms in pets. Be on the lookout for:

• Frequent scratching or chewing at the skin
• Red, inflamed skin
• Excessive paw licking
• Recurrent ear infections
• Hair thinning or bald patches
• Watery eyes, sneezing, or nasal discharge

Some pets may also develop atopic dermatitis—a chronic, itchy skin disease triggered by environmental allergens. According to Cornell University’s Riney Canine Health Center, atopic dermatitis is one of the most common allergic conditions in dogs and often begins before the age of three. Learn more about this condition and how it's diagnosed and managed here: Atopic Dermatitis.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian to rule out other conditions and begin appropriate treatment.

Simple Ways to Reduce Exposure at Home

Managing allergies often starts with minimizing your pet’s exposure to allergens. Here are a few steps that can make a difference:

• Wipe your pet’s paws and coat after walks to remove pollen
• Bathe your pet regularly using a gentle, hypoallergenic shampoo
• Wash bedding, toys, and blankets weekly
• Keep windows closed during peak pollen times
• Use HEPA air purifiers and vacuum frequently

For more information on choosing effective air filtration for your home, check out the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s guide: Air Cleaners and Air Filters.

These habits can reduce indoor allergen buildup and help your pet breathe—and rest—easier.

Veterinary Support Makes a Big Difference

If your dog or cat continues to show signs of seasonal allergies despite routine care, Embrace Veterinary Care offers a range of diagnostic services to help. Our in-house diagnostics in Richmond allow us to quickly identify whether the root cause is a skin allergy or another underlying issue, and to create a tailored treatment plan.

In addition to diagnostics, our team provides custom recommendations to help manage your pet’s allergy symptoms—whether through environmental adjustments, grooming advice, or strategies to support long-term skin health. Treatments for conditions like atopic dermatitis may include oral or injectable options, but choosing the right course starts with a professional consultation and accurate diagnosis.

We're committed to helping you make informed choices that support your pet’s comfort and quality of life—not just during allergy season, but year-round.

In cases where long-term allergy management is needed, immunotherapy may help desensitize your pet to specific allergens. According to the VCA Animal Hospitals overview on allergy immunotherapy, this approach can reduce your pet’s sensitivity over time and may significantly improve their wellbeing.

Don’t Overlook Flea Allergies

In Texas, spring also marks the beginning of flea season. A single flea bite can lead to a severe allergic reaction in some pets. Flea allergy dermatitis is one of the most common causes of itching and discomfort and can be hard to control without a solid prevention plan. 

While allergies can’t always be cured, they can be managed with the right care. By reducing exposure, recognizing symptoms early, and working closely with your vet, your pet can stay comfortable all season long.

At Embrace Veterinary Care in Richmond, TX, we’re committed to helping pets feel their best. If your pet is scratching, sneezing, or just not acting like themselves this spring, don’t wait—schedule an appointment today. Together, we’ll create a plan to help them enjoy every sniff of springtime.