Similar to humans, pets can get sick because of dust, pollen and other allergens which become more frequent during the summer.

Like us, some pets have seasonal allergies. These can cause a variety of symptoms including reddening of the skin, swelling and itching, says SPCA Scientific Officer Dr Alison Vaughan.

“Scratching can lead to secondary signs of wounds, scabbing, skin and ear infections, hair loss, and scaling. Other signs include licking or chewing the paws, rubbing the face and eyes, and respiratory issues.

“There are some other conditions which can cause these symptoms, so the first step should be to work with your vet to get a diagnosis.”

After the spring, the blossom trees and the constant mowing of grass are two factors which increase the risks of pets getting sick.

The most common seasonal allergies are caused by pollen from grass and trees, says says Alison "a variety of animals can be affected, including dogs, cats, and horses. Some breeds may be predisposed to developing these allergies."

“Some skin allergies can result in secondary infections as animals can scratch themselves raw. That’s why it is important to get on top of allergies early.”

Managing these issues can be frustrating and challenging for owners, says Alison.

“While we can’t prevent allergies, we can reduce exposure to common allergens for affected animals by limiting outdoor access on high pollen days, and wiping off the pet’s feet when coming indoors.

“We also recommend discussing with your veterinarian to have a plan for both, long-term allergy management and how to deal with flare-ups.”