I love my pet, but I have an allergy to my dog... what do I do? That question is born of a complicated situation, but we are glad that you have come this far looking for solutions and have not taken the easy way.
The answer is not abandonment
As we said, we thank you for looking for a solution and not having opted for the fast track: abandon your pet to your fate. That's the decision many people make when, for whatever reason, their pet causes them an inconvenience.
And no, abandonment is NEVER an option, no matter what the problem is. There are always other possibilities, and in case your problem is allergy, we will ask you some questions that you can put into practice to prevent or minimize symptoms.
I have an allergy to my dog: what can I do?
We know you love your furry with all your heart and that's why you've come this far. This post we wanted to dedicate it to dog owners, but it also serves for allergies to cats or other domestic pets with hair.
We hope this series of tips will help you!
1. before adoption
Before adopting any animal, if we are not sure that we can live with a pet, it is normal that we have tests that discard any allergies to the animals.
Allergens can come from the animal's hair, saliva, dandruff, etc. and with these tests we will rule out any possibility.
Even so, there are often many cases of people who have lived with pets and who eventually develop allergy to those same animals. So no one is saved from a pirate’s allergy!
2. Don't let the pet into your room
It is the area of the house where we usually spend the most time (when we sleep). That's why your pet should never enter that room, leaving it completely allergen-free.
3. Your house should always be very clean
Allergens are easily accommodated in all the tissues the animal goes through. Therefore, it is important that you clean frequently (preferably using a vacuum cleaner) floors, armchairs, etc.
In addition, your dog's bed, blanket, toys, clothes, etc. should be washed with hot water and some neutral soap every week.
4. Prohibited carpets and carpets
If we have said in the previous point that the cause of the allergy easily adhere to the fabrics, imagine what will happen if you have the house full of carpets or carpet. It's best to keep them away from you and your pet, unless they're bamboo carpets without any hair.
5. Use an air purifier
An air purifier in your home will help you catch allergens, favoring your breathing and reducing allergy symptoms.
6. It has the help of a non-allergic
If your friends know about your love for your pet and you say "I have an allergy to my dog," we're sure someone will give you a hand.
It will be very important your help at bath times, cleaning your belongings or brushing your hair. Try to make it someone who already has confidence in the animal, since the time of brushing (especially when it comes to combing a cat) requires patience and tranquility on the part of the hairy.
If you have no choice but to do it yourself, wear a mask and gloves.
7. See your doctor
An allergist will be responsible for testing you to confirm the focus of the allergy and its intensity.
Your symptoms may be mild and you may be prescribed medication or nasal spray for specific times when you feel you need them. With that and these tips you can live with your pet perfectly. Sometimes things aren't as serious as we feel at first!
What if the allergy is severe?
Unfortunately, you may have a medical diagnosis that confirms that the allergy is to your pet and your symptoms are more severe than simple sneezing or a slight itching.
In that case, the treatment recommended by your doctor may be somewhat more serious, but allow you to continue living with your pet.
The most serious cases, where your health could be highly compromised, will unfortunately have to make another decision. And no, we don't mean abandoning the dog in the street or in a kennel. In these cases, it is best to contact a family member or friend who can take care of your pet so that you can enjoy it whenever you want without your life being compromised.
That's why it's so important that before you make this decision, you get the right tests, see your doctor, and follow these tips.