Sneezing, sniffling, watery eyes - sound familiar? The flowers, trees and warm weather of spring often bring a season of discomfort for many of us. We are able to grab a tissue or take our medication, but did you know that your pet could be suffering from seasonal allergies as well?

Studies are emerging that show animals can suffer from reactions to many of the same things that bother humans. Scientists and veterinarians are striving to learn more about animal allergies, what causes them, and the best possible way to treat them. And, although all animals can suffer from allergic reactions, dogs and cats seem to be the most susceptible.

You may have already dealt with the most common cause of allergies in pets: fleas. Even the bite of one or two fleas is enough to send your dog or cat scratching. The saliva of the flea is the culprit, although all animals will not have a severe enough reaction to it to cause the incessant itching and scratching associated with fleas.

The second most common allergic reaction in pets (called atopy) comes from inhaling particles that cause an immune reaction. It's all in the air. Just as you might be bothered when there is pollen, dust, or mold around, your pet can also suffer from reactions (the main reaction being itching) to these same things.

The most severe allergic reactions in animals are anaphylaxis and urticaria. Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, staggering and weakness, collapse, difficulty breathing, rapid swelling and redness around the lips, eyes, and/or neck, itching, and hives. Although severe reactions such as these are rare, it is vital that you get immediate help.

Animals can also be allergic to certain types of foods. Items that may not appear to be problem-causing menu items include beef, corn, chicken, fish, wheat, and soybeans. Of course there are also the oft-mentioned dangerous "snacks" that can cause severe consequences for your pet. Chocolate should never be fed to your animal. Keep your pet away from plants in the yard that may seem harmless, but could be poisonous to your pet. And, of course, keep your pet away from chemicals and garbage in your house and garage. For more information on making your home a safer place for your pet, please see our past editions of PET Times on www.puppytravel.com.

If your pet is suspected of having an allergy, your veterinarian may perform an intra-dermal skin test. Whereas the human test involves pricking the skin with a substance to see if a reaction occurs, the animal test involves the actual injection of allergens into the skin. Your pet will be tested for allergens that are common in the area in which you live.

As with humans, pets can pass on allergies to their children. Most dogs will show symptoms within three years of age, including frequent skin or ear infections.

Treatments for allergies in pets vary greatly. Often, removal of the problem allergen does the trick. For example, controlling fleas will in turn limit the possibility that they will cause reactions in your pet. Placing your pet on a special diet is another way to avoid allergic reactions. Of course, sometimes more treatment is needed. Some animals may require weekly or monthly shots, while others may need to bathe with special shampoos that contain oatmeal. There are also topical products that contain antihistamines. Human products that treat allergies should never be used on a pet.

If you suspect that your pet has an allergy, make an appointment with your veterinarian. Your pet will thank you and you will both be able to enjoy the beautiful weather of spring even more.

For years, many travelers to Hawaii have opted to leave their pets behind due to the strict requirements that govern the entrance of animals into the islands. But a recent vote by the Department of Agriculture may soon change the way that visitors, and their pets, travel to paradise.

On April 17th, the Hawaii Board of Agriculture approved a 5-day or less rabies quarantine for dogs and cats. This proposal would allow owners who complete pre-arrival requirements and submit all appropriate documentation to avoid the quarantine that has been in place since 1912. It would also allow residents of Hawaii to travel with their pets if they comply with the new requirements.

The 120-day rabies quarantine was put in place when the disease became prevalent in California and it was feared that it would spread to Hawaii next. Currently, owners must place their pets in quarantine for 30 days and meet immunization and testing requirements before they are able to roam freely about the islands. The $655 fee seems minimal when compared to the 120-day and $1,080 fee that is placed upon animals that do not meet requirements.

The new program will feature a "five days or less" program and a "direct airport release" program. The proposal is now in the hands of the Attorney General's Office and Governor Linda Lingle who has said that she will approve the measures.

Since we at puppy travel love Hawaii and love traveling with our pets, we have even sent one of our own over to Hawaii to investigate this great news. Currently, a company representative is finding out how we can help you and your pet beach it in Hawaii. We will be sure to keep you posted on all of the latest details.

Of course, Hawaii is not the only place with pet-friendly beaches. We are the experts when it comes to pet-friendly destinations throughout the world. From the perfect sandy retreat in sunny Miami beach, where dog-friendly "bark parks" welcome your four-legged companion to the more rugged parks along the coast of Cornwall, UK, you only need to make one call to puppy travel to start planning your trip to your favorite beach. Call puppy travel at 1-800-261-3555 or visit www.puppytravel.com today!

Aloha!