I know my own hayfever/allergies have been out of control. It has been years since I remember it being this bad. I am not sure where you are located, I am in SE, PA and we did not get much snow this winter but it was definitely very cold. Supposedly even colder than last year when we had snow until April, or at felt that way, if I am exaggerating! Definitely no spring here either. I keep hearing we will have a very hot, humid summer.
I think you might be on to something with the chicken, I have not heard a raw fed dog described in the way you are describing Sam.