If you or one of your family members has life-threatening symptoms, there isn’t much you can do to reduce their symptoms and it would be best if you found a new home for the pet.
However, if the symptoms are mild then there are easy ways to reduce allergens indoors so you and your pet can live together more comfortably.
1. Use HEPA Air Cleaners
These filters help clean and purify the air from any dander or dust. Also, try refraining from any dander catching furniture and curtains. So instead of getting a cloth couch or chair, try a leather one that is easy to dust. Also dusting often is a huge help when trying to control dander and pet dust within your home.
2. Bathe your Pet on a Weekly Basis
This helps reduce the number of dead skin cells and dander in their fur. Be careful not to wash your dog too much though as it can damage and dry their skin. Find a good dog shampoo that is going to be good for your dog’s skin. Some dogs can have skin allergies, so it is best to consult with your vet or animal care expert for a shampoo that is good for your pup. 3.
3. Create an “Allergy-Free Zone”
This will most likely be the allergic person bedroom or maybe even a basement or upstairs area. In this area, the pet will not be allowed to enter the room, you should have an air purifier in the room and be sure to vacuum and dust the space often.
4. Make Sure you Know what Your Allergic To
If you go to the allergy doctor, specifically ask them to test you for pet dander just to make sure you know what is causing your reactions. Oftentimes, if you have allergies to one thing, you have allergies to a lot of other things as well. It is important to get rid of all possible allergens in your environment once you know what you're allergic to.
5. Try Treating your Allergies
Although Benadryl may help, it makes people sleepy. Try finding other alternatives like Zyrtec or Flonase that may help with your allergies. Nasal sprays, breathing treatments, and antihistamines can all help deal with common allergy symptoms. Make sure to find an allergy doctor that understands your commitment to staying with your pet.
For me personally, I am allergic to dogs. They make my asthma act up. But I did the research for hypoallergenic dogs and take my breathing and allergy medications every day and it is as if I am not allergic at all.