Allergies vs Pet Irritations 🤧

Hi Everyone 

Do you know what to look for if your pet is scratching, licking, or when they seem as if something is off?At this time of year, we see a surge in pets suffering from skin problems, ear infections or irritation—but not all discomfort has the same cause.

In fact, one of the most important things we do as vets, is figure out whether your pet is experiencing an allergy, a sensitivity or something entirely different—like a grass seed lodged between the toes.

Let’s take a closer look at how we tell the difference, and what that means for your pet’s care.

Allergy or Sensitivity? When Discomfort Needs Deeper Investigation

What is an Allergy? An allergy is an immune system overreaction—typically to pollen, dust mites, fleas or food proteins. It can cause itchy skin, inflamed ears, hot spots, swelling or even breathing issues.

What is Sensitivity? A sensitivity, is usually a milder, slower reaction. It may show up as mild itching, recurring ear issues, or digestive upset—and while it's not usually dangerous, it still affects your pet's quality of life.

Here’s how we manage the difference:

• For ALLERGIES, we take a targeted approach: testing for triggers, avoiding allergens, and prescribing treatments like anti-itch medications, skin support, or even immunotherapy.

• For SENSITIVITIES, we focus on gentle management—changing diets, adjusting environments, or supporting the skin barrier with supplements or medicated shampoos.

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At this time of year, one of the most common (and often overlooked) causes of irritation isn't an allergy at all—it's GRASS SEEDS

Who Would have Thought GRASS SEEDS Could be the CulpritA Tiny Threat with a Big Impact

We regularly see pets coming in with swelling, limping, or licking at their paws—only to discover a tiny grass seed has buried between their toes. These seemingly simple seeds can be sharp and pierce the skin, causing irritation that leads to infection or even an abscess if left untreated.

They also love to hide in:

• Ears, causing head shaking and scratching

• Noses, causing sneezing or nasal discharge

• Eyes, causing redness and squinting So When Should Owners be Concerned?

Whether your pet is scratching from pollen or limping from a grass seed, any new or ongoing discomfort needs to be checked out. Early intervention means LESS STRESS FOR YOUR PET and LESS RISK OF THINGS GETTING WORSE.

WORRIED ABOUT YOUR PETWe’ll help get to the root of it and help get your pet back to feeling their best.

We're always happy to chat - just give us a call! Please let us know if you've noticed....

• Persistent licking or scratching

• Swelling between the toes or other parts of the body

• Ear discomfort

• Skin flare-ups that aren’t improving

Call 01 623 70 44 or click here to make an appointment 

Warm RegardsThe PVH Team