Thursday 8 March 2012

You can have allergies and a dog ... five ways to create a pet-friendly home

With spring just around the corner, most of us will experience some “spring fever” allergies.  Although dog allergies may deter you from adopting, there are a handful of things you can do at home to enjoy a pet without compromising your health. 

Get a good allergist
If you have allergies to dogs or other furry creatures, there’s a good chance you suffer from other allergies too.  If you get other allergies under control, it will make living with a pet that much easier. 

Create a pet-free zone
The most ideal place would be the bedroom.  This allows you to spend a good portion of your day free from pet dander.  Have a good night’s sleep and be healthier. 

Invest in HEPA filters and air purifiers
Most allergies are triggered from pet dander and dust, most of which are so tiny they can’t be seen.  Vacuuming with a HEPA filter and running an air purifier will catch these allergy triggers allowing you to breathe cleaner. 

Opt for washable pet bedding
Most airborne allergens will collect where your pet hangs out most often.  And where would that be?  Yup, in their bed or sleeping area.  Washing your pet’s bedding on a weekly basis will reduce allergen build up and it’ll probably smell better too. 

Take a bath
Bathing and brushing your pet is a sure way of reducing allergens.  Get in a routine of a weekly bath and brush to keep hair and danders to a minimum.  An added bonus, regular baths are good for your pet’s health too. 

Most people with mild to moderate allergies can live a happy, healthy life with a pet.  Living with allergies doesn’t need to mean living without a pet. 

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