According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), roughly 15 to 30 percent of people are allergic to cats and dogs. For these individuals, having a pet in the home is not an option–which is fine if they are single.
Many people eventually go from being single to being in a relationship and living together in domestic bliss. What do you do if your significant other is allergic to your pet that you cannot imagine parting with?
The good news is that you do not have to choose between your partner or your pet. It is possible to keep both, and all of you can co-exist without making your partner miserable.
Pet hair attracts dust, pollen and mold, all of which are common allergens. Therefore, people who are allergic to pets think the culprit is pet hair, when in fact it is not. Pet allergies are a reaction caused by exposure to proteins in a pet’s saliva, skin cells or urine.
Symptoms of pet allergies typically include watery eyes, nasal congestion, runny nose and sometimes difficulty breathing or wheezing.
Incorporating a few changes and habits in your home will allow to keep your pet without kicking your partner to the curb. A recent Huffington Post article offered some tips to keep the love flowing between pet owners, their pets and their significant others.
In addition to modifying your home, your partner may want to talk to his or her doctor about allergy medications and treatments. Over-the-counter medications, allergy shots or rush immunotherapy may relieve allergy symptoms.
