Many of you will be surprised to know that I am in fact incredibly allergic to animals (actually allergic to everything, but definitely animals). Every time I get around cats or dogs, or horses, or bunnies, my allergies just completely freak. I get a runny nose, coughing, itchy eyes, sneezing, and a rash. BUT there is a solution to having animals around even if you have allergies. I recently went to my allergist and although she said that the best cure was to remove the animal (um not going to happen if I get a dog), she also gave me a TON of medicine to make them go away and it really works. But it will cost you. I have three inhalers for my asthma, singular, a nasal spray, and an emergency antihistamine (which I take everyday because everyday is an allergy emergency). But after spending an arm and a leg on those plus the doctor's visit, you can be allergy free! I actually went to the pet store yesterday and played with a German Shepard puppy and Rottweiler puppy without any problems (they were adorable!!!). However, there are other things you can do to reduce your animal allergy symptoms (short of getting rid of your pet):
- Keep the pet outdoors at all times. Remember, though, that the allergens will come into your home on your clothes.
- Keep the pet out of the allergic person's bedroom at all times.
- When the pet is indoors, keep it in a room with few allergy reservoirs, such as the kitchen.
- Provide your dog with its own bed.
- Use a HEPA filter in the bedroom and a portable room heater if needed. Seal off the room air ducts.
- Wear a mask when handling the pet (such as bathing), or even better, have a non-allergic family member do it.
- Vacuum with a double filter or a HEPA filter.
- Wash the dog weekly to help remove surface allergens.
- Wash couch, sheets, blankets and anything else the animal comes in contact with weekly.
These methods, along with medication, are honestly the best method for controlling pet allergies I have found.
Any other tips?
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