When our guests come into our store looking for answers to their dog's allergies, we have to narrow it down to either a food allergy or an outside (airborne or contact) allergy. First we seek to put your pet on the best food that will fit his/her needs as this is the first step to helping with food allergies and overall health. However, if your pet has airborne allergies bee pollen may be the answer to build his/her immune system against the airborne pollens.

Bee pollen is considered one of nature's most perfect foods. It is approximately 40% protein. It contains nearly all nutrients required by humans. Bee pollen has many healing properties. It can rejuvenate your body, stimulates organs and glands, enhances vitality, and brings about a longer life span. Bee pollen has the ability to consistently and noticeably increase energy levels and minimize or eliminate airborne allergies.

Bee pollen can help your pet (and even you) through the process of desensitization. Desensitization causes the body to produce antibodies that will cancel out the effects of the offending allergens when your pet is exposed to them. You start giving your pet a minute amount of bee pollen and work up to about ¼ teaspoon per 25 pounds. It has to be local bee pollen as the bees have collected the pollen from our local plants.

Ideally, bee pollen should be taken at least six weeks before the season begins and then continued throughout the season if it's going to work. In the northwest, we seem to have different types of allergens all year around. Ragweed is one of the most common types of allergens for dogs. While tree and grass pollen levels start to drop off as autumn approaches, ragweed sees explosive growth across the country from late August to late October.

As I stated, it is important that you start with a very small amount as your do not want to create an allergic reaction from giving the pollen. Keep an eye on your pet. Watch for any vomiting or a rash on the skin. If this happens, stop giving your pet the bee pollen.

If you wish to use this supplement and are concerned about a bee pollen allergy, you should consult a holistic vet. Under the care of a veterinarian, you may need to test your dog, using bee pollen starting with one grain and gradually increasing the dosage.