Dog Allergy Remedies

What is the first thing most doctors recommend for treatment of dog allergies? The unthinkable-they want you to give up your best friend. Anyone with a pet can understand just how devastating this could be. Many people love their dog or cat more than almost anyone else. I know I would never consider giving up my fur baby, and I suffer from horrible allergies. There are many other dog allergy remedies you can try so that you never have to consider giving up your beloved pet.

Dog Allergy Symptoms

When people are allergic to their dog or cat, it is their immune system overreacting to pet dander, saliva or urine. When the body comes into contact with one of these allergens, it overreacts causing an immune system response which triggers many unwanted symptoms. Dog allergy symptoms can include red or itchy eyes, wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, stuffy nose, posts nasal drip or a skin rash. The severity of the symptoms will depend on the severity of your body's reaction.

Remedies for Dog Allergies

The best way to treat a dog or cat allergy-aside from giving up your pet-is to make changes in your home environment. Your doctor or allergy specialist may recommend keeping your cat or dog outside as an alternative to giving them up. Another option would be to keep your dog or cat in one room or area of the house. These still may not be options you want to consider. Other changes you could make would include installing an air filter in your house to try and catch as many airborne particles as possible. You could also be sure to frequently wash your dog's bed or a favorite blanket. Trying cleanup as much dog hair as possible. Basically, the natural allergy treatment would be to clean much more frequently. Better yet, have a family member who does not suffer from dog allergies clean the area for you, as it could stir up any settled dander or allergens which would aggravate your allergies.

Allergy medications are another alternative to having to give up your pet. Allergy OTC (over the counter) options include antihistamines, and decongestants, eye drops, Claritin and nasal sprays. Most of these medications provide symptomatic the allergy relief. Allergy shots are the only allergy remedy option that tries to reduce allergies over the long term. Allergy shots try to build up your body's tolerance to allergens, making your immune response much smaller in the future.