Identifying Dog Allergy Symptoms and Treatments

One of the facts that you have to deal with when you develop some dog allergy symptoms is the fact that it is not easy to live with your favorite pet. Research shows that up to 40% of USA households have a pet. Therefore finding dog allergy treatments might become a priority if any member of the family developed a reaction.

Given the popularity of owning pets that is a characteristic of the developed communities, it is important to watch out for danger which is a potential allergen. Virtually every home in the USA has some dander. If someone develops dog allergy symptoms then you should consider some of the treatment programs which are offered by the experts. It is estimated that allergies are the 2nd highest cause of absenteeism. Therefore this condition has economic implications.

• Signs that there is something wrong: You will experience regular wheezing and coughing especially when you are near a dog. Another classic symptom is an episode of red and itchy eyes. Suffers will have a runny and stuffy nose. This can lead to constant sneezing. On certain occasions the patient may experience some skin reactions. One of the typical warning signs is if you break out in hives in the location where a dog has licked you. It is important that you protect anyone that is suffering from asthma since they are particularly vulnerable to this condition. The vectors for transferring the allergens include urine and saliva.


• Treatment programs: The known dog allergy treatments include antihistamines. These are chemicals that stop the leakage process whereby fluid will seep into the tissue and cause hives. Over-the-counter varieties include Benadryl, Allegra, Zyrtec and Claritin. Nasal sprays such as Astelin can be an effective alternative. Decongestants are useful for reducing swelling and reducing some of the effects that are associated with a stuffy nose. The best brands include Allegra-D and Sudafed.

If the methods mentioned above do not bring relief from dog allergy, then you may be able to use prescription steroids such as Nasonex and Flonase. However you must ensure that you have consulted with your physician in terms of preventing some of the worst side effects. You may decide that the best approach is to restrict the movement of your dog or any other pet in order to ensure that it does not spread danger. This avoidance strategy is favored by many home owners and pet lovers.