For many people, the love and companionship of a furry friend is worth dealing with some sniffles and sneezes. However, for those with pet allergies, the symptoms can be much more severe and disruptive to daily life. If you or a family member is allergic to your pet, don’t lose hope – there are ways to reduce allergen exposure and manage symptoms within your home.
Understanding Pet Allergies
Pet allergies are triggered by proteins found in an animal’s skin cells, saliva, and urine. These microscopic particles are sticky, allowing them to easily disperse through the air or remain on household surfaces after settling. The most common culprits are cats and dogs, though rodents, birds, and other warm-blooded pets can also cause allergic reactions in some people.
Common symptoms include nasal congestion, itchy/watery eyes, wheezing, coughing, and skin irritation or rashes. In severe cases, pet allergies may lead to an asthmatic episode. Consult an allergist to get properly tested and receive guidance on managing your specific allergic triggers.
Home Management Strategies for taking care of your pet
While completely eliminating pet allergens from your home is nearly impossible, there are steps you can take to help reduce your overall exposure:
- Set Up Allergen-Free Zones
At minimum, make sure your bedroom is a pet-free space so you can sleep free of allergens. Use high-efficiency particulate air filters and keep pets off furniture in these allergen-free areas.
- Groom Regularly
Brushing your pet frequently helps capture and remove excessive loose hair before it circulates through the home. Bathing your pet on a weekly basis can reduce airborne allergens as well.
- Clean Thoroughly
Vacuum carpets, upholstery, and drapes at least once or twice weekly using a vacuum with a HEPA filter. Damp mop hard floors and wipe down surfaces with a micro-fiber cloth regularly to remove pet dander. Wash pet bedding weekly in hot, soapy water.
- Control with HEPA Filters
Consider using HEPA air purifiers, especially in commonly used rooms. These can capture airborne allergens and clear the air you breathe. Be sure to change filters regularly for maximum efficiency.
- Minimize Fabrics/Carpets
Pet allergens cling to fabric surfaces like curtains, rugs, and upholstery. Minimize these items or use plastic covers that can be wiped down easily. Wood, tile, vinyl and other solid surfaces don’t collect as many allergens.
- Consistent Medication
Allergy medications may be recommended by your allergist or your vet to help control symptoms. Immunotherapy also known as allergy shots is an option for some to gradually build tolerance over time.
- Relegate the Dog’s Area
Build or buy an easy-to-clean crate, kennel, or designated pet zone with washable surfaces like tile or concrete to help contain your dog’s dander. Limit them from roaming the entire house, especially human bedrooms.
If allergen avoidance methods at home don’t provide sufficient relief, you may need to explore rehoming your pet as a last resort, as difficult as that may be. Your health should be the top priority.
Making pet ownership possible while managing allergies requires diligence and commitment. Follow your allergist’s advice, create an allergen-reduction plan for your home environment, and be consistent. With some creative adjustments and teamwork, many pet lovers find ways to comfortably live with their furry companions despite allergies.
Diet and Nutrition
- Feeding high-quality, grain-free dog food without common allergy triggers like corn, wheat, soy, dairy, and beef. Novel protein sources like venison, duck, or fish are less likely to cause food allergies.
- Supplement with omega-3 fatty acids like fish oil to reduce inflammation and improve skin/coat health.
- Avoid abruptly switching dog foods, as this can sometimes trigger food intolerances. Transition slowly when changing diets.
Stress Management
- Stress can exacerbate allergies, so ensure your dog gets plenty of exercise, mental stimulation, and a stable routine.
- Try natural calming aids like pheromones, supplements with theanine, or body wraps/shirts to reduce anxiety.
Being proactive with your dog’s diet is key. Many dogs have food allergies or intolerances that can trigger skin issues, gastrointestinal upset, and other allergy symptoms. Your vet can identify any food triggers and transition your dog to a specialized diet eliminating those ingredients.
Environmental management is also crucial. Identify and minimize your dog’s exposure to common environmental allergens like dust mites, mold, pollen, or fleas. Use high-efficiency air filters, keep your home clean and dust-free, bathe your dog regularly to remove allergens from their coat, and treat your home/yard for fleas.
Overall wellness plays a role too. Make sure your dog gets appropriate exercise, maintains a healthy weight, and receives preventative care like flea/tick prevention. Stress can also exacerbate allergies, so keep your dog’s routine consistent and their environment enriched but calm.
Work closely with a veterinarian to determine the root causes behind your dog’s allergies. They can run diagnostic tests, prescribe medications like antihistamines or steroids to manage flare-ups, and develop an individualized prevention plan tailored to your dog’s sensitivities and needs. With diligence, you can dramatically improve your dog’s allergy symptoms and quality of life.
Expert advice on healthcare, nutrition, behavior and all your pet needs! 
