Do you have pet allergies?

Don’t Let Pet Allergies Get You Down

If someone in your home has been diagnosed with allergies by an allergist, carefully consider if you can live with or manage the symptoms. Children may outgrow pet allergies while others are able to manage their symptoms and keep their pet in their home.

The Following Have Proven Effective In Managing Pet Allergies:

• Minimize contact with the animal and create an area free of pets, such as the bedroom.
• Vacuum and clean floors, walls, ceilings, and furniture on a weekly basis.
• Place a high efficiency particulate air purifier (HEPA) in the home, in addition to filters on vents.
• Enlist the help of non-allergy suffering family members to clean the litterbox and pick up after the pet.
• Frequently wash clothing and bedding materials, including the pet’s bed.
• Frequently bathe and groom the family pet.
• Consider removing dander attracting materials such as upholstered furniture and draperies; replace wall-to-wall carpeting with wood, tile, linoleum, or vinyl flooring that won’t harbor hair and allergen causing molecules.

Additional Treatments For Pet Allergies Include:

• Immunotherapy (allergy shots)
• Steroidal and antihistamine nose sprays or medication
• Or a combination of both approaches

Consult with your physician and/or allergist to determine the best course of action for your family to live happily with your family pet.