Have you noticed your soulful sidekick scratching a bit more than usual? Or maybe Fido's sneezes are becoming a regular soundtrack in your home?

You're not alone in this observation. As it turns out, the same global phenomenon that's been making headlines for causing extreme weather patterns and threatening ecosystems is also making our pets' lives a tad more uncomfortable. Yes, we're talking about climate change, and it's got our pets itching for answers.

Understanding pet allergies

First off, let's break down what pet allergies really are. When your pet reacts to something as seemingly harmless as a pollen grain or a tiny flea bite - that's an allergy for you.

Pets, just like us, can have allergic reactions to all sorts of things, from the food they eat to the grass they roll their freshly washed fur in. These allergies can make them itchy, swell up, or even cause digestive troubles.

Getting to the bottom of what's bugging them often involves some detective work with your vet, including tests and trial treatments, to make them comfortable again.

The sneaky culprit behind your pet's sneezes

At first glance, climate change and pet allergies might seem like distant cousins at best. But dig a little deeper, and you'll find they are closely related. The link? Allergens. These pesky particles, which include everything from pollen to mold spores, are becoming more prevalent as the planet warms.

New studies show that higher temperatures are causing plants to bloom earlier and for longer periods, leading to an increase in pollen – a common allergen for pets. Additionally, higher humidity levels can foster mold growth, another trigger for our copilot's allergies.

But how exactly does this translate to your pet's health? Just like humans, pets can suffer from allergic reactions when their immune systems recognize these airborne allergens as threats. This can lead to symptoms ranging from mild (think itchy skin and sneezing) to more severe reactions like respiratory distress.

Warming climates also lead to an increase in tick and flea-borne viruses, which our cats and dogs are already susceptible to especially if they're not on preventative medications.

With climate change extending the allergy season, increasing the concentration of allergens in the air, and allowing flea and tick populations to thrive, it's no wonder vets are seeing more pets with uncomfortable symptoms.

Observing the changes in allergen exposure

Veterinarians and pet parents are all saying the same thing: allergies in pets are on the rise. What used to be a seasonal sniffle is now turning into a year-round problem for some pets, especially in places where the climate change effects are more pronounced.

It's not just about more allergens in the air; it's also about these allergens sticking around longer, making it harder for our pets to catch a break.

Is climate change affecting your pet?

Identifying whether your pet is suffering from allergies exacerbated by climate change involves keeping an eye out for certain signs. These can vary widely but often include:

• Increased scratching or licking

• Runny eyes or nose

• Sneezing or coughing

• Skin irritation or hot spots

• Ear infections (often indicated by head shaking or ear scratching)

If you're noticing any of these symptoms becoming more frequent or severe as the seasons change, it might be time to consider the role of environmental factors.

How to help your pet cope

While we might not be able to single-handedly stop climate change, there are steps we can take to lessen its impact on our pets' allergies. Here are a few strategies:

1. Keep Tabs on Allergy Seasons: Being aware of when allergy seasons start and peak in your area can help you prepare and protect your pet from excessive exposure to allergens.

2. Create a Safe Haven: Make your home a sanctuary from allergens. Regular cleaning to reduce dust, investing in an air purifier, and keeping windows closed during high pollen days can make a big difference.

3. Grooming is Key: Regular baths and grooming can help remove allergens from your pet's fur and skin, providing relief from itchiness.

4. Watch the Diet: For food allergies, it's all about figuring out what doesn't sit well with your pet and avoiding those foods.

5. Consult Your Vet: If your pet's allergies are severe, a visit to the vet is in order. They can offer treatments ranging from antihistamines to more specialized therapies like allergy shots.

6. Smart Pet Care: Plan walks for times when pollen counts are lower, and keep an eye on humidity levels at home to ward off mold and mites.

7. Boost Their Immune System: A healthy diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids can help strengthen your pet's immune system, making them less sensitive to allergens.

The bigger picture: Climate action for pet protection

Addressing your pet's allergies also involves looking at the larger issue of climate change. By engaging in environmentally friendly practices, such as reducing waste, conserving energy, and supporting sustainable products and companies, we can all contribute to a healthier planet—not just for us, but for our pets too.

Battling the itch

As we continue to navigate the challenges posed by climate change, it's clear that its impact stretches far beyond the obvious. From the air we breathe to the health of our pets, everything is interconnected.

By staying informed, taking action, and caring for our soulful sidekicks with a little extra TLC, we can help mitigate these effects and ensure our pets live happy, healthy lives.

Lizz Caputo is the Manager of Content Strategy at Figo, animal enthusiast, and owner of a rescued senior American Bully. Her hobbies include checking out new restaurants in her area, boxing, and petting dogs of all shapes and sizes.