Dogs and Allergies
Stopping the Drip of Allergies
From Krista Mifflin,Your Guide to Dogs.
Dog Lovin' and Still Breathin'!
Are you one of the many dog lovers that can't be in the same room as
a dog without degenerating into a sneezing fit? Don't despair! You
are not alone!
Thousands of animal lovers around the world are allergic to their
pets, but that hasn't stopped us yet. Yes, that's me included. Before
you acept the fact that you'll never join the ranks of the dog-loving
public, or worse, feel you need to find Dustmop a new home, read
these tips for keeping your allergies under control, and Dustmop by
your side.
You're not even limitted in your choice of dog breed. Terriers,
Schnauzers, and Poodles aren't your preferred breed? Don't want to
have to pay a lot of money for a purebred, and you'd rather hit the
shelter to rescue a buddy in need, but you're afraid of your nasal
reaction? No problem!
Living with three large, overly-affectionate, dander-by-the-ton dogs,
I've found what really works to keep allergies under control.
Start Now
* Visit your Allergist. Many are sympathetic to the pet lover's
plight, and anti-histamine therapy is available for minour allergies.
Immunotherapy allergy shots are also there for the heavy-hitting
allergens. Ask your Allergist about starting a therapeutic program to
get a handle on your allergies.
* Air Filters are essential to any allergic household, regardless of
pets present or not.
* Carpetting should be removed regardless of the impending presence
of pets or not. Carpet is one the biggest allergen collecting items,
and with a pet, that effect is intensified.
Daily Allergy Controllers
* Brushing your dog daily, especially during shedding season, in a
well-ventilated area (preferably outdoors) can minimize the dust from
floating furballs inside the house.
* Vacuuming regularly, to catch and remove the afore-mentioned
"floating furballs".
Weekly Maintenaince
* Hot water washing of all sheets and bedding that the pet lays on,
even yours, if your bed is his favourite resting place.
* Plain water rinsing of the dog will be the biggest allergen
reducer. Even a dog with little dander will pick up allergens on his
coat. Dust, pollen, and dirt all contribute to the "allergic" effect
of a dog. Use plain water only, as shampoos and conditions can add to
the allergen factor.
* Wash the walls and floors of your house in mild dish soap to remove
accumulated dander from the walls.
It's a lot of work, but nobody can deny the effect of a loving pet on
the well-being of his owner. I have found the rewards of having dogs
far outweigh any inconvenience of a cleaning regime, and would not
want them anywhere but by my side, in my house, and under my feet.
~Krista - living with dogs for eight years and still breathing easy.
©2004 About, Inc. All rights reserved. A PRIMEDIA Company.
http://dogs.about.com/cs/allergies/a/allergy_help_p.htm
Posted on SHARE Yahoo group Nov. 30, 2004