Pollen allergies can occur in spring, summer or fall. Various plants pollinate at different times of year. Symptoms can vary depending on climate and the severity of one’s allergic reaction. They can be hard to identify because they are so similar to other allergy symptoms, like those that occur with mold and pet dander: itchy skin and eyes, stuffy nose, and possibly nose bleeds, headaches, sore throat, trouble breathing and asthma attacks, dark circles under eyes, increased congestion, sneezing, wheezing and coughing, feeling drowsy, tired and weak. To help identify if you are suffering from pollen allergy a doctor can do skin testing for different allergens. Diagnosis can also be done through blood. If you think you may suffer from pollen allergy, see your doctor and get a diagnosis; then you can take steps to reduce your exposure and start treating your symptoms.
The Alexa Medispa is very proud to carry Jane Iredale Mineral Makeup. “The Jane Iredale line is the best I’ve found. Until now, most physicians did not recommend a traditional makeup, but we have found that minerals offer anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties,” said Dr. Paul Blair. “Not all minerals are the same. Iredale Mineral Cosmetics is the most technically advanced makeup in the world. As you wear this makeup, you will be able to see how flawless your skin looks. My surgery patients need to be able to go home and conceal bruising and redness. Concealing is simple with Jane Iredale and a little help from our estheticians. It has been proven to be very safe and effective soon after a procedure,” he explained. “I also love the fact that the minerals give a natural sunscreen that last all day. It is very water resistant, so it’s good for the beach or pool. The right application is essential, that’s why we suggest you make an appointment with one of our estheticians for a makeup consultation. They will match you with the perfect shade and teach you application techniques,” Dr. Blair suggested.
Janet Tobiassen Crosby, DVM, has been writing about veterinary medicine topics since 1998.
“Most people are aware that leaving a pet in a locked car on a 100F degree day would be dangerous. However, it is the seemingly mild days of spring (and fall) that pose great danger, too. Driving around, parking, and leaving your pet in the car for “just a minute” can be deadly. Cars heat up fast—even with the windows cracked,” states Janet Tobiassen Crosby, DVM. Dr. Crosby alerts everyone, “If you see pets or children in cars on warm days, please take action and call the police or fire department – time is critical.” According to Dr. Crosby, jogging is also dangerous this time of year for your pet. “So your dog jogs everyday with you and is in excellent shape – why alter the routine? As the weather warms, humans alter the type and amount of clothing worn, and we sweat more. Dogs are still jogging in their winter coat (or a slightly lighter version) and can only cool themselves by panting and a small amount of sweating through the foot pads. Not enough! Many dogs, especially the ‘athletes’ will keep running, no matter what, to stay up with their owner. Change the routine to early morning or late evening to prevent heat stroke.”
Also during the upcoming warmer weather, consider your pet’s housing. Dr. Crosby says that if they are kept outdoors, you pet needs shade and fresh water access at all times. Dr. Crosby suggests that if you live in a warm climate, it is a good idea to hose down the dog before work, at lunch or whenever you can to provide extra cooling (if you dog is not over heated in the first place). Although normally accepted, not all dogs are excellent swimmers by nature. “If Fido has underlying health problems, such as heart disease or obesity to contend with, consider protecting your pet just as your human family—with a life preserver. If your pet is knocked off of the boat (perhaps getting injured in the process), or is tired/ cold from choppy water or sudden storm, a life jacket could be what saves your pet’s life.”
A single female flea can lay 30-40 eggs in just one day, that’s 280 eggs a week! They will hatch in 4-12 days. Flea eggs hatch into larvae which move away from light and downwards. This means that they are usually found deep in the carpet pile, bedding and/or beds. Fleas are one of the most common parasites to hop onto your cat or dog but they are easy to control if you follow a few simple rules. But you may not see any actual fleas as your pet can groom them out before you get the chance to find them.
The easiest way to check is to collect some “Flea dirt”, check their necks or perhaps the base of their tail. If you see little specs of “dirt” get some damp cotton wool and dab the area. Check the cotton wool; has it got a some red color on it? If yes, you can be certain that your pet has been in recent contact with fleas. The Flea dirt is actually dry blood!
Prevention is the key. As with most things, prevention is better than cure. It can take months to obliterate fleas once they get into your home. There are various products you can use. The choice is yours. Whatever you chose, make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
If your dog or cat is already scratching and you see one flea, then you will need to treat EVERY cat and dog in the house. It doesn’t matter what you use, or whether you can actually see fleas on all your pets, ALWAYS treat every cat and dog in the house. Once that is done move onto the house. Treat ALL areas of the house making sure you also treat the pets bedding and beds. There are various products on the market for this.
Normally, flea infestations should clear within a few days. However, flea eggs laid around your home can survive in the carpet, bedding and/or beds for up to 9 months. During this time, they can hatch and jump back aboard the pet no matter what treatment you used. If this happens, then you need to de-flea again as before.