How to Introduce a Pet into an Allergic Household 

Thinking about getting a pet but have allergies? Living with allergies doesn’t always mean giving up on having a furry friend. While no pet is completely hypoallergenic, there are smart ways to reduce allergens and make life with a pet more manageable. Here’s what to consider before bringing one home. 

Decide on a Pet

Hypoallergenic pets? That’s a myth – no pet can be truly free from allergens. Dander is what causes allergy symptoms, and it can be found on the skin, in the fur, and in

the saliva of cats and dogs. There is no way to breed a pet to be fully free from dander, though there are some pets that seem to have less.  

Dogs that don’t shed, as well as short-haired cats and cats without hair, are the best option for pets with less dander.

Groom Frequently

While no pet will come dander free, there are a few ways you can reduce the amount on your pet. Bathing your pet weekly can help to keep dander low, along with brushing. 

It’s also beneficial to have your dog groomed frequently. If you’re doing it yourself, wear a mask and gloves to reduce the amount of dander that can get into your airway, eyes, and nose.  

Keep Up with Cleaning

Keeping up with cleaning your home can also keep your symptoms at bay.  

• Vacuum frequently with a HEPA filter 

• Wash bedding, blankets and rugs in hot water 

• Change furnace filters frequently and use an air purifier  

• Wash plush and other dog toys frequently, too 

It’s important to be consistent with cleaning so that you don’t have a buildup of allergens around the home. Pick a day of the week and try to stick to it.  

Make the Bedroom a Pet-Free Zone

It can be beneficial to make your bedroom a pet-free zone. We spend a lot of our life sleeping, and if you’re exposed to dander during the day, as well as eight hours while you sleep, your body never really gets a chance to recover.  

Pro tip: Use allergen-proof pillow and mattress covers and a HEPA air purifier in your bedroom for an added layer of protection. 

Treat Your Allergies

If you’re not already taking antihistamines for your allergies, it can be beneficial to start antihistamines before you bring a pet home so your body is prepared for exposure to dander. 

The same goes for allergy treatment. Providers at Allergy Associates of La Crosse recommend testing to find your specific level of sensitivity to pets (and other allergens), and then treating the cause with personalized allergy drops.  

Allergy drops contain small amounts of the allergens that are identified through testing, exam, and history. Over time, the strength of allergens is slowly and safely increased so the body gets used to being exposed to more and more of the allergen. The goal is that after successful treatment, patients won’t react when they’re around their new furry friend.  

Even if you already have a pet in your home, it’s not too late to address the allergy and make it more comfortable for you to be around a pet. 

Learn more about allergy drops for pet allergies, then schedule a consultation at AAOL here.