Dogs are easy to love, especially for people who like animals. Dogs seem to have unlimited reserves of energy and spend that energy unconditionally loving their owners. Who doesn't like that? Some people can't get as close to their dog, however, due to severe dog allergies. Certain dog allergies can rear their ugly heads and cause real problems. This forces some to find a quick fix, and they end up sending their dog to a new home. While technically this works, it's obviously not the ideal solution to the problem.

Dander (shed skin cells,) saliva, and urine; these are the main villains when discussing dog allergies. When people with sensitive immune systems come into contact with these allergens, reactions can occur. Don't worry about long haired dogs. It's a myth is that hairless dogs will not cause reactions anyway. Less allergens, in the case of skin cells, every dog with drool and urinate. And while annoying, it's good to know that most people will recognize dog allergy symptoms as normal allergy symptoms that they are used to anyway, such as red/itchy eyes, stopped up nose, shortness of breath, and rashes. Of course these are not any fun, but they are manageable.

A clean home is the best defense against dog allergies and allergens. Making a point to vacuum regularly helps, as does using furniture that is upholstered in leather. Changing your air filter to your AC unit will help reduce dander floating around in your house. And since fur can retain allergens, regular bathing is a good idea. Be sure to remember to wash your dog's bedding or cushions, or else anything you gained from giving the dog a bath will be lost quickly.

Or take the easy way. Many companies make products that reduce allergens. Special shampoos can help reduce dander on a dog without drying the skin. Start learning some new habits and you'll be decreasing dog allergies in not time at all.

The simplest way to reduce the effects of pet allergies may be to consult an allergy specialist. As a pet owner myself, I frequently use allergy medications to reduce the itchy eyes and runny noses that are a result of owning two dogs. Allergy shots are also offered as a form of immunotherapy. These are very effective way to prevent allergy symptoms. Rather than finding a new home for your dog, make the adjustment and life for you and your friend will be much easier!

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