While adding a new dog or cat to your family is an extremely exciting time, if you are an allergy sufferer, it might be a conflicted time for you as well. If you have been having allergy symptoms since bringing your pet home, it might point to the fact that you have a pet allergy—but there may be a different scenario, such as being allergic to something your pup picked up on a walk, too.

Regardless of what is causing your allergies, they are no fun to experience. That is why our AFC Urgent Care Chattanooga team has put together some tips to help you determine what is causing your allergies and how to live with your pets in harmony in spite of them.

How Do I Know If My Allergies Are Related to My Pets?

The only way to know for sure if your pets are causing your allergies is by getting an allergy test done by your doctor. Pet dander—the substance that triggers allergy symptoms—can cause different levels of reactions in different people, and can also vary from pet to pet as well.

Even breeds of dogs and cats that are advertised as “hypoallergenic” can cause these reactions in people, so be wary of any claims regarding this.

Options for Pet Allergy Treatments

• Allergy shots
• Daily antihistamines
• Nasal sprays

Are There Lifestyle Changes I Can Make to Reduce Pet Allergies?

Because the dander that causes pet allergies can go airborne and stick into carpet fibers, onto walls and in nooks and crannies, it can be shockingly difficult to get rid of.

Thankfully, through regular, routine lifestyle changes, you can get a much better handle on your allergy symptoms and live peacefully with your pets.

Lifestyle Changes to Help Pet Allergies

• Avoiding allowing pets on sofas or beds
• Bathing and brushing pets regularly
• Installing HEPA filters in your home

If you have pets in the home and want help coping with your allergies, your AFC Urgent Care of Chattanooga team is here to help. Schedule an appointment with us when it’s convenient for you so you can get the help you need.