What to Do If You’re Allergic to Your Pet?

 pet allergens

One of the biggest dilemmas families have when deciding to get a pet is allergies. It is good to consider all possible consequences before getting a pet. People who are sensitive towards environmental allergens may face problem because of animal dander. Furry animals may trigger intolerable allergy conditions. Animal furs may aggravate seasonal allergy symptoms, but it doesn’t mean that you cannot have a pet. By taking precautionary measures and allergy treatment, you can live with pets.

Are You Allergic to Your Pet?

Touching or inhaling animals lead to allergic reactions. The most common pet allergens are animal dander, urine, saliva and sebaceous cells. Any animal can trigger allergy symptoms, but cats and dogs are the most common culprits. People can also develop allergy symptoms from exotic animals such as guinea pigs, ferrets, birds, rabbits and rodents. There is no specific species or breed to which humans cannot develop allergies. Also, fur type, color or length will not affect or prevent allergies.

Once you get diagnosed with pet allergy, your allergy specialist may recommend minimizing the contact with your pet. Isn’t it Heartbreaking? Yes. Is it necessary? Not always. Well, many people are allergic to several things along with pets, such as molds, dust mites, and pollens, all of which can be found in the environment. Allergy symptoms result from the total cumulative allergen contact. That means if you eliminate some of the other allergens from your life, you may not have to leave your pet.

Enjoy Life with Pets Even if You Have Pet Allergies

Create an allergen free room: Limit your exposure to allergens as much as you can. Keep doors and windows of your room closed. And do not allow your pet to enter in your room.

Vacuum frequently: You can minimize your contact with allergens by keeping your place clean.

Install an air purifier: Air purifier will purify the air you breathe.

Invest in washable pet bedding: Washable bedding will make your cleaning chore easy.

So, decontaminate your home environment, limit future exposure to allergens, find an allergy doctor who will work with you, and enjoy with your pet.

Important: This information does not replace doctor’s advice. Please consult with your doctor before trying anything new.

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