Introduction
According to Matt Davies Harmony Communities, pet allergies are a common problem many animal lovers face. But while the symptoms of these allergies can be frustrating, there are many ways you can mitigate them and live comfortably with your furry friends. Here are some tips to help you cope with animal allergies while living with pets:
- Create a “pet-free” zone in your home
Designate at least one room in your house where the pet will not be allowed to enter. An ideal place would be your bedroom. Keeping your pets out of your bedroom will reduce the allergens in there and allow you to have a more restful sleep. Besides, you can always seek refuge in this “safe” space whenever your symptoms are acting up.
- Get a HEPA air purifier
Another effective way to manage pet allergies is to buy an air purifier with a HEPA filter. This device can remove small particles, including pollen, dust mites, and dander, from the air in your home. Using an air purifier will reduce the allergens in your environment and help you live a happy and healthy life with your pets.
- Wash up and change your cloth after cuddling your pet
If you have an animal allergy, it’s best to wash your hands and change into different clothing after playing with your pet. This will prevent you from carrying allergens around the house and transferring them into your bedroom. So, it is good to have special clothes or smocks that you wear when around your pets and wash them before returning them to your closet.
- Keep your pet clean
Since pet allergies are caused by dander (dead skin cells), cleaning your pet regularly can help you remove some of them before they are blown into the air. If you own a dog, you need to bathe them (at least once a week) and brush their coat every day. If it is a cat, consider wiping the animal’s coat with a wet towel every week since they tend to resist baths.
- Vacuum frequently
Animal hair and dander can get stuck and accumulate on the floor, especially if you are using a rug or carpet in your home. So, it is crucial to vacuum often to remove these allergens and prevent them from escaping into the air you breathe. Go for a vacuum with a HEPA filter, as they are more effective at collecting tiny particles than a conventional vacuum.
- Use allergy medication
There are some medications that can help prevent or reduce the symptoms of your pet allergies, such as antihistamines, decongestants, nasal sprays, etc. While some of these drugs are available over the counter, others can only be bought with a doctor’s prescription. However, it’s important to consult your physician before using any allergy medications.
Conclusion
Matt Davies Harmony Communities believes the tips above will help you manage your symptoms if you are allergic to your dog or cat. While these tips will not stop you from experiencing symptoms, they will minimize your exposure to allergens and enable you to have a healthy relationship with your pet.