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Allergies To Dogs

Learn How To Minimize Allergies To Dogs

Suffering from allergies to dogs?

For many sufferers, acknowledging their allergies to their best friends often takes second precedence to the emotional connection they have with their buddies. Reactions can be developed at any age. Have a dog you are not willing to give up Or maybe you were contemplating getting a dog but were concerned about your allergic reactions?

By learning about their symptoms, causes and treatments you may be able to minimize your allergy exposures enough that you can co-exist comfortably with a best friend.

Dog Allergy Symtoms

If you think you or a family member are suffering from allergies to dogs you may want to check for the following symptoms and see a doctor:

• Asthma
  
• Hives
  
• Itchy, watery eyes
  
• Runny nose
  
• Nasal congestion
  
• Sneezing
  
• Headaches

Causes Of Allergies To Dogs

Allergies to dogs are caused by exposure to allergens that are normally present in an animal's saliva, urine, or in secretions from glands in the skin. An animal's hair or dander are not themselves the actual cause, however, they are great airborne carriers for the offending allergens. If looking to own a dog, choose any of the hypoallergenic dogs to help minimize reactions because they do carry less allergens. The term hypoallergenic means "reduced allergic reaction". So, what are the best treatments when having allergies from a current best friend?

Treatment For Dog Allergies

What kinds of treatments are available? Allergists agree that the best treatment for animal or dog allergies, as for all types of allergies, is prevention. Avoid them. But avoidance need not always mean living without any pets, especially if your allergies to dogs are moderate. Eliminating as many animal allergens from the home. Keeping pets outside may be difficult to do for because most pets should be ndoors for their safety and their health. What are other treatments to minimize allergens in the home?

• Use an air cleaner in your home - especially in the bedroom.
  
• Provide good ventilation throughout your home.
  
• Keep pets off carpeted areas of your home.
  
• Eliminate carpeting and upholstered furniture as much as possible.
  
• Keep your bedroom door closed.
  
• Leave dust-intensive cleaning activities to non-allergic family members.
  
• Leave combing and grooming to non-allergic family members.
  
• Change your clothing after animal contact.
  
• Replace heating and air conditioning filters frequently.
  
• Include natural fat in your pet's diet to minimize dry skin and flaking.
  
• Groom your pet frequently.
  
• Leave the house during vacuuming.

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Apply these rules consistently and make it easier for your pet to understand and learn them as well. We hope these treatments for allergies to dogs will help you co-exist with a best friend!

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