Pet Owners Living with Pet Allergies

15 to 30 percent of people who have allergies will also have allergic reactions to cats, dogs and other animals. People who have pet allergies have very sensitive immune systems which react to harmless allergens in the pet's saliva, dander, or urine. Pet hair itself is not an allergen, but it can carry dander which can carry dust and pollen. A stuffy nose, inflamed eyes, itching and swelling of the membranes are all symptoms of a pet allergy. Pet owners that have allergies can follow a few tips to lesson these reactions: using an air cleaner with a HEPA filter, wearing a dust mask while vacuuming, removing wall to wall carpeting, and restricting pets access to the bathroom and furniture.