People, Pets and Allergies

Can people, pets and allergies all live happily together? Yes. And I 'll show you how.

Allergies can be caused by many things in our environment...house dust, pollen, food and pets. The signs can be mild or so severe that medical attention is required. It estimated by the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology that over 15 million Americans suffer with some form of pet induced allergies. Shelters report that allergies are one of the most common reasons why pets are relinquished.

You may experience sneezing, itchy eyes, a runny nose or difficulty breathing. The cause of the reaction is a protein found in the animal's saliva. As the pet grooms itself, it spreads this material all over its body.

You can help to minimize your exposure to this protein by frequently bathing your pet, minimizing external parasites that can cause it to overgroom, routine vacuuming, using air purifiers and replacing carpets with hardwood floors. Owning a cat versus a dog, or possibly a rabbit, ferret, hamster or fish might make a more suitable housemate. Seek professional assistance from an allergist if needed because allergies are nothing to sneeze at.