Summertime is all about enjoying the great outdoors with your whole family, but with weeds and grasses all doing their part to fill the air with pollen, the summer can become stressful for a large portion of the population -- and their pets -- that suffer from allergies.
Many seasonal allergy sufferers are unable to appreciate the joy of summer because their symptoms cause so much discomfort. And pets suffer from allergies too! Here are some of the ways animal lovers can make this allergy season (and every season) sneeze-free.
Don't Blame Your Pet!
If you think that you or a family member has allergies, visit a specialist to determine the exact cause of symptoms and to help alleviate them. In fact, pollen is the leading allergen in the summer months. And while it cannot be completely avoided, pollen levels are highest in the morning -- so sleep in and breathe easy!
And it's not just house pets that you can be allergic to. Many humans and animals alike have allergic reactions to bee stings, so keep the bugs at bay and the stings away to avoid a troublesome and worrisome allergic reaction.
Know Thyself
While it's just not fair to blame your pet for making you sniffle, you can avoid that awkward conversation all together by adopting a hypoallergenic pet. And if you don't trust us, look to president Obama and his hypoallergenic Portuguese Water Dog! If doggie dander gets you down, pick up a pet that fits into your life and there will be puppy love all around.
Remember -- Pets Get Seasonal Allergies, Too!
Dogs often get "atopy," where they inhale allergens that cause excessively itchy skin, known as pruritis. Medications and immunotherapy (de-sensitizing shots) can allow you and your companion animal to live happily together. Animals can also suffer from non-seasonal allergies, such as allergies to house dust or certain proteins.
For general, seasonal allergies, feel free to give your furry friend an over-the-counter allergy medicine such as Benadryl. They'll get the same relief without the hassle of going to the vet.
It's no surprise that in the summer heat pets develop nasty, little "hot spots." Starting off as little pinpricks of irritation, hot spots are incredibly itchy and are likely to be eventually torn open by an uncomfortable animal. Hot spots are often, but not exclusively, caused by fleas or ticks and are best delt with by preventing them from manifesting at all. Invest in pet armor for dogs or cats to keep your furry friend itchless and allergy free. Just remember not to use products intended for dog use on your feline as they are often more powerful and can effectively poison a curious cat.
Keep Your Home Clean
Be sure to clean the litter box regularly. Vacuum frequently by using a vacuum equipped with a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate arresting) filter or a disposable electrostatic bag. An air purifier fitted with a HEPA filter can also make a big difference in removing allergens from the air. And remember, let some fresh air in each day!
Clean your pet, too!
Pet parents should bathe their pet in order to remove allergens that accumulate in fur. Be careful, though, not to do this too often. Frequent bathing can dry out your pet's coat. Products formulated to prevent dander from building up and flaking off into the environment are also available, but be sure to ask your veterinarian to suggest one that is safe to use on animals who groom themselves. Brushing or combing your pet frequently also helps to keep allergens at bay.
Create an Allergen-Free Room
The bedroom is the most practical choice for an allergen-free room. A good place to start is to use hypoallergenic bedding and pillow materials. Allergen-removing central air and furnace filters are another good option. If you do have pet allergies, keeping pets out of the bedroom can be very helpful in minimizing symptoms. Additionally, be sure to wash all linens in hot -- 130 degrees at least -- water to be sure to kills off all potential allergens.
Limit Fabrics in Your Home
Allergens collect in rugs, drapes and upholstery, so do your best to limit your use of them in your home. If you choose to keep some fabrics as part of your décor, steam-clean them regularly.
Isn't it great to Medicate
As they say, "You can run but you can't hide." Don't be afraid to turn to over-the-counter medications, like Zyrtec and Claritin, to help you in your fight against allergens. Most allergy medications are gentle and safe enough for you and your pet, but be sure to consult with your veterinarian before you decide to play doctor.
Location Location Location
With most trees having finished pollinating in the spring, the pollen of the summer months comes primarily from weeds and grasses, so plan accordingly. Try to plan your daily activities around you and your pets' special needs. There are significantly fewer allergens at the beach -- and it is summer anyway -- so take a trip to the sea and you "shore" won't regret it!
Follow Pet Lifestyle Expert Wendy Diamond at AnimalFair.com for the latest tips for you and your furry friends!