Having a pet is something everyone should experience. Unfortunately, for those with pet allergies, it is nearly impossible.
No matter how much we love our furry friends, our allergies can get in the way of keeping them. Despite the admiration of our cats and dogs, frequent sneezing, itching, watery eyes, and shortness of breath aren’t livable.
Luckily, there are ways around getting rid of our pets.
Below are five easy ways to make living with a pet allergy easier:
1. Designate “pet-free” spaces in the home
Ideally, you should always keep your pets out of the rooms where you spend the most time. For example, places like the bedroom and home office should be pet-free.
In addition, you should teach your pets not to go on furniture and invest in hypoallergenic bedding (which resists allergens such as dander, pollen, dust, and mold).
An air purifier with a HEPA filter can help reduce air-borne allergens, as well.
2. Clean more often
The cleaner the house, the better you’ll be.
Especially in homes with carpets, vacuuming and shampooing regularly are key. If you are able, removing carpets and rugs entirely is a good idea. Anytime you can eliminate an area where dander may be trapped, you are making for a more livable space.
It’s also important to clean your bedding, and any fabric your pet sleeps on.
3. Medications
If you suffer from itchy eyes, sneezing, and nasal congestion, visit your local pharmacy and pick up some over-the-counter allergy medication. If your symptoms continue, set up an appointment with an allergist.
4. Allergen immunotherapy
Allergen immunotherapy, or allergy shots, is a long-term treatment that will reduce symptoms from pet allergies.
The treatment is given by exposing the body to minute amounts of an allergen and gradually increasing doses. This helps the body build immunity or tolerance to the allergy.
5. Rush immunotherapy
Rush immunotherapy is just like allergen immunotherapy. However, in the beginning phases of treatment, doses are given at an increased rate, thus making you more tolerant of allergies quicker.