Allergies are the most common reason for a dog to suffer from skin issues. There are three ways for plants to cause an allergic reaction in dogs: through inhalation of pollen, contact through rubbing or touching the plant or through consuming the plant.
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Identification
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Dogs show their allergic reactions through their skin. This can vary from skin lesions to itching, red patches and hair loss or excessive chewing, particularly on the feet.
Contact Allergens
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It is not rare for dogs to have reactions to plants that are not releasing pollen such as chives, English ivy, mint plants, liverworts, poison ivy, tree ferns, Ginkgo biloba or Wandering Jew.
Inhaled Allergens
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Common floral plants that are known to cause allergic reactions in dogs include chamomile, chrysanthemum, daffodils, lilies, sunflowers, lavender, marigolds, dandelions, Peruvian lilies and tulips.
Food Allergens
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Certain plants that are used commonly as food in households can cause a reaction through consumption or through contact, depending on the dog. These plants include onion, garlic, kiwi, lemon, lettuce, lime, mango, celery, artichoke and asparagus.
Solution
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The best way to resolve allergy issues is to remove the offending plant. If the allergen is seasonal and cannot be removed, your veterinarian may prescribe medications to be dispersed as needed.
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