Tales of Itchy and Scratchy (and not from the Simpsons cartoon)

Spring has sprung! The warmth of a new season is upon us! Along with the sunshine and the rain showers (and the occasional thunderstorm that has Buster running under the bed) comes ALLERGIES!

It's no fun your furry friend keeping you up at night scratching like there's no tomorrow. How can you give your pup some relief?
Disclaimer: A trip to the veterinarian is always the best course of treatment, but if your dog is not in any physical pain at the moment, here are a few DIY tips to make your pup more comfortable for spring. 

Grass Allergies: 
If you find he is scratching right after he comes in from using the bathroom outside (in the grass), it could be a grass allergy. Best bet is to wipe his paws and belly with a baby wipe or damp wash cloth to rid his skin of topical allergens. (Especially right after the lawn is mowed)

Ask your vet about antihisitmines (Such as benadryl) you can give your dog to help with some relief: General rule is 1-2mg per pound but check with your vet before administering ANY medications. It may make them sleepy at first, but once their body is used to it they perk right up. 

Yeast: If your dog is losing hair and getting constant ear infections, (and he kinda smells like cheetos) a vet visit is definitely in order. There are many specialty shampoos that are antibacterial and antifungal that can be prescribed or used to treat these conditions once diagnosed. Lazy Daisy Mobile Grooming offers a mud bath for dogs with itchy irritated skin.
Just remember to leave the shampoo on the pet for at least 10-15 minutes so it can work it's magic to make your pup better!

Food Allergies: 
If your pup has a not so best history of allergies plus ear infections, check what kind of food he is eating. Those you typically find in the grocery store may not be the best quality. Flip the bag over and see how many times a grain is listed, and how many meat by-products are listed. Food allergies are very difficult to pinpoint, but upgrading your dog's food from a food that heavy in grains and meat is the third or fourth ingredient to a food source with a protien the dog hasn't had before may be your best bet.
And if your dog's food looks like the colors of the rainbow, they are more than likely food dyes also added to it.

My favorite link for comparing dog food is http://www.dogfoodadvisor.com/

My favorite brands of food are: 
Fromm - can buy at local specialty food stores such as Tomlinson's (in Austin)
Kirkland's Nature's Domain (brand at Costco)
Taste of the Wild (can be found at most Petco locations)