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With the onset of spring comes the onslaught of seasonal allergies such as hay fever and those associated with various forms of pollen. These allergies tend to only be present at certain times of the year like spring or fall. Unfortunately for those allergic to their pet, or more specifically their pet's dander, the allergy is present all year long. Most people are well aware of their allergy. Symptoms include itchy, watery eyes; sneezing; runny nose; and nasal congestion. Allergic reactions can range in severity from slight discomfort to full-blown life-threatening episodes.
Your pet's dander -- tiny flakes of animal skin -- is the culprit. Many people suffer through these allergies for the enjoyment of having a pet. For those of you waging this battle, here is a list of preventive measures that can be taken to help minimize the allergens in your home:
• The most effective thing you can do is not to allow pets in your home. For many pet lovers this is simply not an option.
• Have your pet groomed frequently. Washing and brushing your pet can reduce the dander in your home.
• Wear a dust mask whenever cleaning up after your pet or if you groom or bathe your pet.
• Make specific pet-free rooms in your house so that you can have an allergen-reduced area to which you can retreat.
• Make your bed and bedroom a pet-free zone so that your sleeping is not affected.
• Replace home furnishings that trap and hold dander with ones that do not (replace fabric furniture with leather or vinyl).
• Replace fabric drapes and curtains with vinyl, wood or aluminum blinds.
• Replace carpet floor coverings with wood or vinyl.
• Wash frequently wherever your pet sleeps or lounges.
• Steam-clean carpeted areas frequently.
• Ask for help from non-allergic family or friends to help with your pet's cleanup.
• Utilize HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filters wherever you can (on vacuums, air vents, etc.).
• Keep your pet outside if possible.
• Wash your hands after interacting with your pet.
• Keep your pet's skin and coat healthy with proper diet, nutrition and even supplements.
Another option is for the owner to seek treatment. This may include such things as non-prescription medications (antihistamines, decongestants or nasal sprays), prescription hay fever medications, medicating with topical or inhaled corticosteroids or immunotherapy (injections which are often given on weekly intervals). Pet owners may have to think long and hard to determine how far they are willing to go to keep their pet while struggling with allergies.
Dealing with allergies is certainly not an ideal situation; however, for many people the benefits of pet ownership far outweigh the discomfort. Good luck.
• Tug Gettling is director of North Utah Valley Animal Services |
