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'Tis The Season … For Sneezing!

As the long nights of winter give way to the happy days of spring, the ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) wants to remind animal lovers and potential pet parents to take care during allergy season.

“Many who suffer from allergies are unable to appreciate the joys of springtime because their symptoms become a real annoyance,” said Dr. Steven Hansen, Senior Vice President of the ASPCA's Midwest Regional Office, which also houses the ASPCA Poison Control Center. “Itchy, watery eyes and sneezing are problematic for seasonal allergy sufferers, and can be even worse for those who own pets. By taking a few precautions, surviving allergy season with your animal companions will be much easier.”

Here are some of the ways animal lovers can make this allergy season sneeze-free:

• Spend time with furry friends. If you are unsure whether you or your family members have pet allergies, spend time in the home of pet-owning friends before adopting a dog or cat. “If a family member does have allergies, it doesn't necessarily mean you cannot have a pet,” says Dr. Hansen. “If you suspect that you or a member of your family has allergies, take them to a specialist who will determine the exact cause of your symptoms and help alleviate them.” Medications and immunotherapy (de-sensitizing shots) can often allow you and your companion animal to live happily together.
  
  
• Create an allergen-free room. A bedroom is often the most practical choice to do this, recommends Dr. Hansen. “By preventing your pet from entering this room, you can ensure at least eight hours of freedom from allergens every night. It's also smart to use hypoallergenic bedding and pillow materials.”
  
  
• Limit fabrics in your home. Allergens collect in rugs, drapes and upholstery, so do your best to limit or eliminate them from your home. If you choose to keep some fabrics as part of your décor, steam-clean them regularly.
  
  
• Make sure your home is clean. Clean the litter box frequently, using low dust, perfume-free filler—clumping litter is a good choice. Dr. Louise Murray, Director of Medicine at the ASPCA Bergh Memorial Animal Hospital, says, “Vacuum frequently using a vacuum equipped with a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate arresting) filter or a disposable electrostatic bag. An air purifier fitted with a HEPA filter can also make a big difference in removing allergens from the air, but remember to still let in some fresh air daily.”
  
  
• Clean your pet, too! Both Drs. Hansen and Murray remind pet parents that bathing your pet removes allergens that accumulate in fur. “Be careful, though, not to do this too often,” says Dr. Murray, “as frequent bathing can dry out your pet's coat.” You can also wipe your pet with a product formulated to prevent dander from building up and flaking off into the environment. Ask your veterinarian to suggest one that is safe to use on animals who groom themselves. Brushing or combing your pet frequently also helps to keep allergens at bay.
  
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