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August 21, 2008 - Allergic to Your Furry Friend?

Allergic to Your Furry Friend?

Research shows that an estimated 15% percent of the U.S. population suffers from some sort of pet allergy. Symptoms of watery eyes and itchy skin can occur within minutes of coming into contact with the animal

Pet-allergy sufferers are not actually allergic to pet hair; they are allergic to the allergy-triggering proteins, called allergens, secreted by glands in the animal’s skin that linger in the hair and float easily in the air. Allergens are also present in the animal's saliva and urine, and they may become airborne when saliva dries on the hair. Contrary to popular belief, there are no non-allergenic (not allergy causing) breeds of dogs. All dogs have hair (even so-called “hairless” dogs), dander, saliva, and urine; therefore, all dogs can cause allergic reactions.

So, how can people who suffer from pet allergies manage them enough to keep a dog as a pet—and enjoy it? Below are tips helpful to you, family members and guests to your home:
  • People spend a great deal of time in the bedroom. By keeping pets out of the bedroom at all times, you can greatly reduce the symptoms of pet allergies.

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  • Use baby gates to keep your pet downstairs, away from the upstairs bedrooms.

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  • Avoid wall-to-wall carpeting in your house. Wall-to-wall carpeting collects dander and is difficult to keep clean.

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  • Install a good "HEPA" air cleaner. A central HEPA air cleaner is ideal, but if you don't have one, portable room air cleaners are better than none.

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  • Wash your pet’s cushion covers, blankets and soft dog toys, frequently with hot water using a mild, fragrance-free detergent.

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  • Vacuum regularly including the furniture, blinds, and all other surfaces.

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  • Bathe your pet frequently.

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  • Have pet-free reserved seating in your house or do not let your pet on the furniture at all.

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  • Avoid transporting your pet in your car, or use washable car seat covers or blankets.

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  • Brush your pet daily in a well-ventilated area (preferably outdoors).

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  • Change your clothes to remove the dog dander, such as after a pet has sat on your lap.

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  • See your physician to discuss allergen-reduction products.
By adopting some good management strategies, allergic pet owners, friends and relatives can once again enjoy furry companions.

About Bark Busters:
Bark Busters, the world's largest, most trusted dog training company, started in Australia in 1989 and came to the United States in 2000. Since inception, nearly 400,000 dogs have been trained worldwide using its dog-friendly, natural methods. With 250+ franchised offices in 42 states and more than 400 offices in 10 countries, Bark Busters is continuing its mission to build a global network of dog behavioral therapists to enhance responsible dog ownership and reduce the possibility of maltreatment, abandonment and euthanasia of companion dogs. Bark Busters is the only international dog training company that offers a written lifetime guarantee. SPCA International selected Bark Busters dog behavioral training services as the “Best of the Best” in its category. No other training company or dog trainer received such a distinction. To fetch a trainer in your area, call 1-877-500-BARK (2275) or visit www.BarkBusters.com, where dog owners can complete a Dog Behavioral Quiz to rate their dogs' behavior.  

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