Spring is Coming – ACHOO
Announcement posted by Pet Insurance Australia 14 Jul 2025
Australia - [July, 2025] - As spring brings wildflowers and rising pollen levels across Australia, Pet Insurance Australia (PIA) warns pet owners to be vigilant about rising skin allergy risks and the growing benefits of early nutritional support.
According to the 2025 PetSure Pet Health Monitor1, skin conditions and allergies accounted for 24% of all medication-related claims in 2024. Brachycephalic breeds were nearly twice as likely to suffer from skin allergies compared to other dogs.
"Skin conditions and allergies have continued to be one of our most common claims over the past decade," Nadia Crighton from Pet Insurance Australia says. "It's a problem that affects so many Australian pets, but the great news is that with the right diagnosis and care, pet owners can offer their beloved companion animals some much-needed relief during this upcoming seasonal change."
Why Spring Allergies Spike in Pets
Seasonal allergens such as pollen, mould, and dust can trigger intense itching, redness, flakiness, and even secondary infections. Symptoms commonly include ear discharge, persistent scratching, hair loss, hot spots, and scaly skin. Prompt action is critical to prevent worsening symptoms and costly treatments.
Pollen-Filled Spring Predicted for Australia
As we head into spring, experts are warning of a longer and more intense pollen season across Australia. A major study from the University of Queensland2 reveals that grass pollen levels have increased by 34% per decade in Sydney and by a staggering 200% in Canberra, attributed to climate change. Warmer winters and changing rainfall patterns are causing earlier and longer pollen seasons, particularly in southern cities such as Adelaide and Melbourne.
"With a longer allergy season and higher pollen levels expected, it's not just humans who are affected—our pets can suffer too," says Crighton. "Now is the time for pet owners to start preparing, especially if their dog or cat has a history of skin or respiratory allergies."
The increased pollen load puts pets at a higher risk of allergic reactions, including itching, sneezing, ear flapping, hair loss, licking paws/pads, and skin irritation. Early intervention—such as omega-3 supplementation and vet-guided allergy management—can help reduce symptoms before they escalate.
The Power of Omega-3 for Skin Support
Emerging veterinary research highlights the positive role of omega-3 fatty acids (especially EPA and DHA) in managing canine skin allergies3.
"One clinical trial showed significant improvement in skin scores among dogs supplemented with flax oil or commercial omega-3 preparations versus a placebo group," Crighton says. "Other studies indicate that omega-3 supplementation leads to healthier skin, reduced itching, and improved coat condition within two months.
Fish oil, particularly those containing EPA and DHA, is recommended by veterinarians as a natural anti-inflammatory aid.
"The key with Omega-3 supplementation is to begin before allergy symptoms appear. Starting early helps reduce inflammation and supports your pet's skin barrier, which can minimise the severity of allergic reactions," Crighton notes. "If your pet typically struggles with spring allergies, now is the ideal time to start."
Spring Safety Tips from Pet Insurance Australia
- Take your dog to the vet at the first sign of skin irritation.
- Ask about a dermatitis or allergy management plan, which may include medications and topical care.
- Begin Omega-3 supplementation early in spring to support skin resilience.
- Choose high-quality fish oil with at least EPA and DHA, ideally formulated for pets, and consult a vet on dosage.
- Implement simple changes at home: wipe paws after walks, bathe with hypoallergenic shampoo, and clear plants that may irritate.
Brachy Breeds
PetSure 2024 claims data shows that brachycephalic breeds were almost twice as likely to suffer from skin allergies than non-flat faced breeds, with a frequency of 19.4% and 10.4% respectively.
"The average cost to treat skin allergy was $815, with a maximum amount of an eye-watering $16,935," Crighton says. "Allergies can be very complex to diagnose and treat, and sadly, in 2024, brachy breeds were also found to have suffered 43% more from dermatitis and 24% more from skin conditions compared to their long-snout counterparts."
Many of the skin issues faced by flat-faced dog breeds require long-term care and may involve multiple treatment modalities.
This includes treatments such as:
• Medication that might be applied topically to the skin as well as taken internally to treat bacterial or yeast infections.
• Surgery to manage skin fold issues around the face and tail (intertrigo) or to remove cysts (pedal furunculosis) between their paw pads.
• Allergen-specific immunotherapy.
Veterinarian Consultation Essential
Pet Insurance Australia urges those pet owners who suspect their pets are struggling during allergy season to seek veterinary treatment early to prevent secondary issues such as hot spots and hair loss.
"It's not just supplements—your vet is best placed to tailor nutrition, medications, and treatment plans. Early detection and intervention are key to managing spring allergies," advises Crighton.
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1 - https://petsure.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/PHM-2025_VD-03-1.pdf
3- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15206474/
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Pet Insurance Australia policies entered into for the first time prior to 8 May 2023 and subsequent renewals of those policies are issued by The Hollard Insurance Company Pty Ltd ABN 78 090 584 473, AFSL 241436, arranged and administered by PetSure (Australia) Pty Ltd ABN 95 075 949 923, AFSL 420183 (PetSure) and promoted and distributed by PetSure's Authorised Representative (AR) Pet Insurance Australia Pty Ltd ABN 85 113 507 850, AR 326233 (PIA). Pet Insurance Australia policies entered into for the first time on or after 8 May 2023 and subsequent renewals of those policies are issued by PetSure and promoted and distributed by PetSure's AR, PIA. Any advice provided is general only and does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs. Please consider the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) to ensure this product meets your needs before purchasing, or choosing to continue with the product. PDS and Target Market Determination available at petinsuranceaustralia.com.au.