Dog Allergies
Love your dog but allergic?
Suffering from allergies can slow you down traumatically, even with little exposure to a dog. It’s been proven that each one produces different amounts of dander or oils depending on the type of fur or hair. Long hair animals tend to have lighter fur with two layers. Short hairs have one layer, producing more oil to keep their fur durable and water resistant. Some special breeds actually have hair and not fur which is recommended for allergy suffers.
Symptoms include the following:
- Itchy, watery eyes
- Runny nose
- Sneezing, wheezing or tightness in your chest for asthma suffers
Once an allergen has entered your blood stream it takes up to seven days for your system to be completely clear of all irritants.
How to Cure Dog Allergies at Home
Even though there is no specific cure, there are several things you can do around your house that will greatly reduce the negative effects of having a dog allergy. The following are a few things that should be done:
- Baths: This should be done outside once or twice a week. The shampoo that’s used should not dry out your dog’s skin. Your vet should be able to recommend a brand that’s best for your pet.
- Keep your pet outside: At the very lease he should be keep out of the bedroom and away from air vents.
- Carpets: Heavy carpets should not be kept in the house. They’re a collecting ground for pet dander. If you own one, they should be steam cleaned frequently.
- Beds: Since dogs like to cuddle up in bed with their owners, it’s a good idea to wash the bedding in boiling water every other month or so.
- Wash your hands: This should be done with soap and water after coming in contact with a dog. Never rub your eyes or eat after contact. This causes the dander to spread.
- Choosing the right dog: When looking for your pet, search out the breeds that are low allergens or non-allergic types
- Medications: There are over-the-counter treatments available to control symptoms. If they don’t work speak to your doctor.
- Be ready: Keeping a set of hand wipes and eye drops readily available along with hand sanitizer may help reduce the cause of symptoms.
- Grooming: Take your dog to a professional groomer, to trim and primp your dog’s fur/hair in order to reduce shedding.
- Diet: Food plays a huge role in the air reproductions in dogs. Special diet foods, depending on your dog’s age group actually will help with their fur/hair lowering the cause of oil and dander.
- Clean: Vacuum the house often using a vacuum cleaner that has a HEPA filter.
- Air filters: A HEPA room air cleaner will help keep dog hair out of the air. It’s best to keep it in the bedroom and off the floor.
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