You've just brought home that new pet for your child that he or she has been asking you about for a very long time. Excitedly, the child reaches down to pet the creature, letting out a big sneeze. You think nothing of it at first, but over time, it's clear that your child has an allergy to their new friend. If you don't want to cause heartbreak in your child by getting rid of the animal, then you can treat them for pet allergies. The doctor will most likely prescribe an allergy medication, but there are also a few things that you can do to help manage or eliminate your child's pet allergies for good so that they can get back to having fun with their furry companion.
Keep Your Home Clean
In order to keep your child's pet allergies at bay, one of the biggest things you can do is clean your home regularly. If there is pet hair on your surfaces, vacuum it up immediately. You should also vacuum your floors at least once a day with a pet hair vacuum with a special filter that is designed to remove animal dander and other allergens. This way, if your child is already on medication to control their allergies, they can still be in the areas where the pet wanders around without having too much of an issue.
Consider Getting The Child Allergy Shots
Most children don't like shots, but if there is no way that they can give up their new furry friend, then allergy shots may be the best way for you to manage their allergies. Take the child to an allergist as soon as you can to assess whether they would benefit from such shots. If the allergist finds that the child would do well with such a treatment, then start a round of allergy shots immediately. Not only will this help keep your child's allergies in check, but it may actually prevent them from having more severe allergies, or any allergies for that matter, later on down the road.
Keep Your Pets Well-Groomed
Though not technically a treatment option, keeping your pet well-groomed is one of the best ways to reduce allergies in your children. If you wash and brush your pet's coat regularly (assuming the animal will allow you to do so), this will get rid of any stray hairs or dander that may be present within the coat, so your children will be less susceptible to the things that make them sick when they come into contact with their pet.
Don't Allow Pets In The Bedroom
If your child spends most of his or her time in the bedroom, then make that area a pet-free zone. This is one of the best allergy-management options available because this will keep the child from breathing in dander and pet hair all throughout the night, which will keep them healthier. They can still play with the pet throughout the day (provided they wash their hands after they are finished doing so), but under no circumstances should the pet be allowed in the room of the child who is allergic.
Pets are a valuable part of the family, and if you don't want to have to break your child's heart by telling them they have to get rid of their new friend after finding out they have allergies, then consider following the tips outlined above. Doing so will make your child happier and healthier, and it will make your pet happy as well since it won't have to find a new home after coming to live with you for just a short time. Don't forget to consult with a professional like Asthma and Allergy Clinic.
Share5 February 2015
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