Pet allergies are a common reason that many dogs and cats are given up each year. Some suffers have been able to make some easy lifestyle changes to make it possible to keep Fido.

Start with better grooming. Start with brushing your dog at least every five days. Regular brushing not only keeps loose hair and dander skin flakes under control, it also distributes natural coat oils to keep skin and coat from becoming dry.

If possible, have a non-allergic person to be in charge of the grooming chores. To keep hair levels down in the house, groom Fido outside. If you are allergic and must do your own grooming, consider wearing a mask.

If you have to groom your dog inside, first spray it down with a coat or grooming spray. Spraying it on before you brush will keep hair and skin out of the air.

Frequent, weekly shampooing with a fragrance-free, hypo allergenic pet shampoo will also aid in reducing allergens. If you take your dog to a professional groomer for a shampoo be sure to request the same, because you may also have an allergic reaction to the fragrance oils added to some shampoos.

Between grooming I would recommend using pet-safe grooming wipes. A daily wipe down will help to remove dirt, allergens, and dander from your pet’s coat between shampoos.

Aside from keeping Fido neat and tidy, you will also need to keep your living environment clean. Allergens use dust particles as a way to travel. Keep the dust down and the allergens will lose one mode of transportation.

It is a good idea to keep the bedroom a pet-free zone. This will reduce the number of hours you are exposed to pet allergens. This means keeping everything that comes in contact with your pet out of the room, including clothing.

Next, vacuum your carpet daily with a heavy-duty vacuum preferably with a high-quality HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filter. For added protection, use a HEPA air cleaner in areas your dog frequents and use a high efficiency disposable furnace filter for the entire house. Always mop hard surface floors and dust with a damp cloth to prevent stirring up allergens.

Wood or tile is a better choice than carpet; it will be easier to clean and will be less likely to hold pet hair and dander. When choosing your next couch, consider one made of leather or microsuede. Microsuede is a great choice, because pet hair and dander will not penetrate it.

A little extra work around the house and giving Fido a little more attention to his grooming will result in a healthier living environment for everyone. Remember, every dog deserves to be treated like a show dog.

Tony Barker

The BARKer Shop