A dog's curious nose puts them at risk of inhaling any mold they may come across. Inhaling spores can lead your canine companion to develop a variety of allergy symptoms. Learn about mold allergies in dogs and how they can be treated in today's Northwest Austin Veterinary Center blog post.
What are mold allergies?
Mold produces spores that can cause allergic reactions in humans and animals. It can be found indoors and outdoors, and multiplies rapidly in damp, humid environments such as basements. Mold also grows seasonally in piles of wet leaves and decaying plant material, but is most notoriously found in places like bathroom showers and damp window ledges.
Mold allergies typically begin to appear in young dogs under the age of three, though they can develop at any age. Mold is the most common inhalant allergen in dogs, but other airborne allergens such as pollen and dust mites can also cause problems.
What are common dog mold allergy symptoms?
Itchy skin is often the first sign of irritation in dogs who inhale mold spores, but other symptoms can include:
- Frequent scratching, licking, and/or biting themselves
- Coughing
- Sneezing
- Wheezing
- Labored breathing
- Watery eyes
- Recurring ear infections
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
If your dog is displaying any of the above symptoms or changes in your behavior, appetite or energy level, contact your veterinarian to book an examination.
What dog breeds have an increased risk of mold allergies?
There are a number of breeds that appear to be susceptible to inhalant allergies. These include:
- Golden Retrievers
- Poodles
- Pugs
- Miniature Schnauzers
- Lhasa Apsos
- Shih Tzus
- Irish Setters
- German Shepherds
- Terriers (West Highland, Boston, Skye, and Scottish)
How are mold allergies in dogs diagnosed?
Dogs with inhalant allergies may be sensitive to multiple particles, including dust, mites, and pollen. Your veterinarian will go over your dog's medical history, recent illnesses, prior incidents of skin irritation, recent travel history, current diet, and whether your pup is taking any medications. They will also perform a physical exam, which will include a close examination of your dog's ears and skin.
Blood tests, urinalysis, and skin scrapings may be performed to help rule out other possible causes of your dog's symptoms. Intradermal skin testing, skin biopsy, skin cytology, ear and skin cultures, and additional skin scraping may also be recommended. In some cases, the advanced diagnostics and care of a veterinary dermatologist may be needed to give your dog relief from symptoms.
How are dog mold allergies treated?
Medications may be prescribed to treat your dog's symptoms and make breathing easier. Your dog may also require ear drops if an ear infection is present, as well as antibiotics to treat infected skin sores.
Your veterinarian may advise you to have the mold removed from your home as soon as possible to help treat your dog's symptoms and any infections. Depending on the severity of your dog's symptoms, as well as their size, age, and health, your veterinarian may also advise you not to take your pup home until the mold has been removed.
Symptoms may not improve and could even become worse if mold is still present in the house.
How do dogs recover from mold allergies?
Mold allergy treatment and recovery go hand in hand. Adherence to veterinarian-prescribed therapies will benefit a dog with allergies. Additional efforts on your behalf can include using a dehumidifier to prevent mold, deep cleaning mold-prone rooms, using cleaning products that remove mold and spores, and having air conditioning ducts checked regularly.
You may also want to have your dog wear washable booties and a sweater when going outside. Fur and feet should be wiped down after every walk before entering the house. If you have any questions, the veterinarian can help. Regularly scheduled examinations will be required to check that recovery is progressing smoothly and help ensure that your dog remains healthy and symptom free.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.