By Dorothy Belle Poli
Do your eyes burn, water or itch? Do you cough, wheeze, or sneeze
often? Does your
nose run? Chances are you have allergies, maybe even to your beloved companion
animal. Don't panic - there is help and the first thing you
can do is learn about your
options. Follow these simple steps so you, Fido, and
Fluffy can live happily ever after.
Carpets and drapes should be minimized
in the home since they hold 100 times more allergen than nonporous
flooring and window coverings. Tannic acid sprays
will help with cat allergens if you must have carpets. Use a
vacuum with a high
allergen containing rating (HEPA filter) too!
Declare your bedroom off limits to your
animals by closing the door at all times. Use a mattress cover
that can be washed often in hot water or use an inexpensive vinyl
cover to minimize dust and dander where you sleep. Change bed-clothes
at least 2 times a week - remember you bring allergens into the
room on your own
clothes.
Use a HEPA air purifier replacing the filters
often. These can remove 99% of small allergen particles from the air.
Ventilate your home by opening the
windows as often as possible.
Bathe your animals at least 2 times a month
or up to one time a week.
Groom your pet and clean litterboxes outdoors!
Feed your companion animal a high quality of
food since it means less dander in the long run.