Allergies to Pets:

You know the drill. You’ve either had your dog or cat forever and love him dearly. Or, you recently brought home little Fido and can’t understand why your eyes won’t stop tearing. Well, you’re not alone.

Pet allergies can begin at any point during your life. Interestingly enough, most people who are susceptible to pet allergies are also allergic to pollen or mold. And since it’s genetic – if your parents have pet allergies, you will too, it’s not uncommon to be allergic to dogs or cats. Get this - approximately 15% of the population is indeed allergic to dogs or cats.

As for what exactly we’re allergic too, well that depends. Usually it’s the dander or the dead skin that is continually shed. It could also be the saliva. Since dogs and cats are the most common household pets, they’re usually the animals people are most allergic too. This shouldn’t dismiss the fact that people also may be allergic to birds, hamsters, and horses.

If you’re not sure of the symptoms, you may nod your head in agreement if you’ve had itchy eyes, a runny nose, asthma-like symptoms, red itchy skin or even a rash. Sometimes allergies go undetected so people may feel the symptoms, including children, and be unaware that it’s related to a pet allergy. They may simply think they have a cold which simply won’t go away. However, if the person is separated from the animal for greater than a week, symptoms typically subside only to return when they’re in close contact with the animal again.

While the simple solution is to no longer own your beloved pet, in most or all cases, that tugs at our hearts. So, other solutions include making your home a more comfortable, non-allergen-friendly abode.

Keep your dog or cat out of your bedroom. Since we spend a significant amount of time sleeping, pet allergy symptoms should at least decrease for this location.
Close ducts to bedrooms and use electric heaters.
Clean and vacuum frequently.
Bathe your pet and practice good hygiene.
Do not allow your pet to sprawl across the furniture.
Give your pet a place just their own that is easy to clean - such as a washable dog bed. (The Dog Bowl carries washable dog beds.)
Do not allow your pet in your car. (This applies for safety reasons as well!)
Brush and groom your pet daily. (The Dog Bowl carries a brush called the FURminator that is simply amazing! Click here to shop.)
Keep your pet’s skin healthy by feeding him omega supplements.
Wash your hands after touching your pet.
Talk to your physician about allergy shots or medications.

Keep in mind even if you or your family do not have pet allergies, your friends who visit may have pet allergies! That’s it’s all the more important to practice the above mentioned pet allergy management tips on a regular basis.

At The Dog Bowl, nothing is more important than your pets’ health and well being, as well as yours. For more information about pet allergies and management tips and to find quaity products to help you shop at The Dog Bowl - click here.