How YOU can beat the Pollen Season in Seattle – And How Dog Daycare Can Help!
Pollen season in Seattle and across Washington State can be a challenging time for both dogs and their owners. With blooming trees, grasses, flowers, and allergens fill the air, leading to sneezing, itching, and discomfort for many pups. As a responsible dog owner, it’s important to take proactive steps to minimize your dog’s exposure to pollen while keeping them happy, active, and how being in dog daycare can help your dogs allergies!
In this guide, we’ll cover:
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How pollen affects dogs
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Tips to reduce pollen exposure
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How dog daycare at Seattle Canine Club can help
How Pollen Affects Dogs
Every year like clockwork we often see pollen flying around in the air as if Washington is seeing a second winter with the sun out, but seasoned citizens of Washington know that once it starts, its time to stock up on allergy medicine and whatever else to help alleviate the inevitable oncoming allergy season.
Just like humans, dogs can suffer from seasonal allergies. Common symptoms include:
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Excessive scratching or licking
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Red, irritated skin
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Watery eyes and sneezing
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Ear infections (due to inflammation)
Breeds with longer coats or skin folds (like Bulldogs, Retrievers, and Spaniels) may be more prone to trapping pollen, worsening their reactions. We also want to advise extra caution with brachycephalic dogs as well! Pugs, French Bulldogs, Boston Terriers, and more as pollen can further increase the difficulty of breathing as pollen would worsen symptoms they might already have like congestion and inflammation.
Tips to Reduce Pollen Exposure for Your Dog
1. Wipe Down After Outdoor Time
Pollen sticks to your dog’s fur and paws. After walks or playtime outside, use a damp cloth or pet-safe wipe to gently clean their coat, paws, and face.
2. Keep Indoor Air Clean
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Use an air purifier with a HEPA filter to reduce indoor allergens
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Wash your dog’s bedding frequently in hot water
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Vacuum carpets and upholstery regularly
3. Adjust Walk Times
Pollen counts are highest in the early morning and late afternoon. Opt for midday walks when pollen levels are lower.
4. Bathe Your Dog Regularly
A weekly bath with an oatmeal or hypoallergenic shampoo can help remove pollen and soothe irritated skin.
5. Consult Your Vet About Allergy Relief
If your dog suffers from severe allergies, your vet may recommend:
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Antihistamines
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Medicated shampoos
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Allergy shots or supplements
How Dog Daycare at Seattle Canine Club Can Help
While limiting outdoor exposure is helpful, dogs still need exercise and socialization—especially during allergy season. That’s where dog daycare at Seattle Canine Club comes in!
Benefits of Dog Daycare During Pollen Season:
✔ Professional Care – Our team monitors dogs for allergy symptoms and can provide immediate care if needed
✔ Indoor Play Areas – Our facility provides a pollen-free environment where dogs can play and exercise without excessive allergen exposure
✔ Regular Cleaning – We maintain a clean, sanitized space to minimize allergens
✔ Supervised Socialization – Even if outdoor time is limited, your dog can still enjoy playtime with other pups in a controlled setting
✔ Grooming – We’re also able to provide grooming services for your dog and sometimes a refreshing bath is all that’s needed to help out their allergies and we can do just that!
By enrolling your dog in daycare, you can ensure they stay active and happy while avoiding the worst of pollen season.
Final Thoughts
Pollen season doesn’t have to mean misery for your dog. With the right precautions—and the help of Seattle Canine Club’s dog daycare—you can keep your pup comfortable, healthy, and entertained all season long.
Ready to give your dog a break from pollen? Book a daycare session at Seattle Canine Club today!
We at Seattle Canine Club feel that this is an important topic, every day we do our due diligence and put in our all to learn how we can not only better take care of the dogs in our daycare, boarding, and grooming facility but how we can further help out our pet parents/club members with recommendations on what they can do to enrich their dogs life. For more informative topics, recommendations, and news, check out more of our blogs! We’ve had everything from new updates, advice on moving with your dog, cat grooming info, and more!
Sources
American Kennel Club – Dog Allergies: Symptoms and Treatment – VCA Hospitals – Allergy General Information in Dogs – Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine – Environmental Allergies in Dogs – Merck Veterinary Manual – Allergic Contact Dermatitis – PetMD – Seasonal Allergies in Dogs – AVMA – Environmental Allergies in Pets – EPA – Guide to Air Cleaners – ASPCA – Common Dog Allergies – National Allergy Bureau – Pollen Count Monitoring – Veterinary Dermatology Journal – Canine Skin Allergies – FDA – Pet Medication Guidelines – DVM360 – Managing Canine Atopic Dermatitis – Tufts University – Managing Environmental Allergies – IBPSA – Pet Care Standards – CDC – Pet Hygiene Guidelines – Journal of Veterinary Behavior – Canine Socialization – Pet Care Services Association – Professional Standards
