Managing Dog Allergies: Answers to a Common Problem

Statistics show that anywhere from 60-70% of all American households include at least one dog or cat.  The numbers therefore, indicate that up to 10% of the entire population suffers from an allergy of some type from an animal.  The most common culprit is the cat.

The next pet in line for allergies is the dog.  Because dog allergies are so common, there is much information available to help the sufferer.

This information may contain segments on how to treat and manage your allergic reactions to your pet.  If your reactions are not particularly severe, and you don’t have further complications such as asthma, you may successfully manage your allergic conditions and enjoy days free of symptoms.

Identifying a Dog Allergy

If you suspect that you or your family member may have an allergy to the family pet, the best way to know this for sure is to remove that person from the environment of the animal for at least a week or two.

By removing the animal an effective means is not always established.  Because the pet dander can remain in the house up to six months after the animal is removed, this may not be the best test.  If not ask your allergist, he can test you by doing an allergy test on you for dog allergies.  This will include your family history and blood tests.

Treatment Options

Dog allergies usually come from allergens that are located within the dander and the saliva of the animal.  These have the ability to cling to many surfaces, and live a long time.  This makes it most difficult to rid a home of the allergens causing the dog allergies.
Long after the animal is removed from the home, the dander is still present.  It takes about six months to clean the environment.

First, keep your pet out of your bedroom.  Reducing this area of allergens can greatly reduce your symptoms from your dog allergies.  Getting rid of carpet might be another method you would be willing to try.  Bare floors are easier to mop and keep clean, thus reducing your chances of getting the allergies.  A HEPA filter is also an effective way of keeping allergens at bay. 

Dog allergies may be a common problem for many people, but they don’t have to make your life miserable.  You can enjoy life with some lifestyle changes and treatment options; you can enjoy your pet and have fewer symptoms.