Tips for the Allergy Prone Pet Lover

Having a pet can help decrease stress, improve mood, and positively affect your health. These are just a few reasons why having a pet is beneficial. Just because you have a pet allergy does not mean you can’t have your own pet. There is even research saying that having a pet in the home can help lower a child’s likelihood of developing related allergies. Let’s take a look at some of the ways to help reduce pet dander and allow you to enjoy owning a pet.

Tips to Reduce Pet Dander

1. There are different breeds of dogs that are less prone to cause allergy symptoms in people. You can look into getting one of these breeds to help reduce your pet allergies. Some examples include irish terrier, poodle, irish water dogs, and maltese.
2. If you already have a dog or cat, bathing them regularly can also help to decrease the amount of dander they leave behind. Since pet allergens are found in the saliva and pet dander of cats and dogs, washing your hands from petting your dog or cat can also help reduce allergy symptoms from flaring up.
3. Create an allergy free zone by keeping your pets out of the bedroom. Doing this can assist in reducing allergens where you sleep and control your symptoms. Washing your clothing and bedding in bleach also reduces allergens.
4. Use HEPA room air cleaners and a HEPA vacuum. HEPA stands for high efficiency particulate air and is a type of air filter. There are room air cleaners and vacuums that use HEPA filters to filter out pet dander and other types of allergens. Investing in these types of filters can aid in reducing your allergy symptoms.
5. Consider treatment for your pet allergies such as using anti-histamines pills or nose sprays that are over-the-counter for mild symptoms. There are prescription medications for moderate to severe allergies, and for very severe allergies, there are shots and additional options available.

Consult an allergist to learn more about your allergy condition and the best way to help manage your allergy symptoms if you really want a pet. Be certain and ask to be tested by an allergist to ensure that you have a true pet dander allergy. The doctors at Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Medical Group can help you. Call 805-658-9500 today to set up your appointment with us! It’s never too late to get a pet even if you have pet allergies!