http://www.sacpaws.com/home/Blog/LB/175 Good stuff from the ASPCA: - Allergens collect in rugs, drapes and upholstery, so do your best to limit or eliminate them—and take care to regularly steam-clean whatever fabrics you do keep as part of your décor. - Create an allergen-free space. “A bedroom is often the most practical choice,” recommends Dr. Steven 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 pillows.” - Clean the litterbox frequently, using low-dust, perfume-free litter—clumping litter is a good choice. - Vacuum frequently, using a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter or disposable electrostatic bag. - Worried your allergies are so bad that you may have to give up your pet? Most people are allergic to several things besides pets, such as dust mites, molds and pollens. Allergic symptoms result from the total cumulative allergen load. That means that if you eliminate some of the other allergens, you may be able to live comfortably with your pet. Advises Hansen, “If you suspect that you or a member of your family has allergies, take them to a specialist who can determine the exact cause of your symptoms and help alleviate them.” Medications and desensitizing shots can often allow you and your companion animal to live happily together. Good stuff from the ASPCA: - Allergens collect in rugs, drapes and upholstery, so do your best to limit or eliminate them—and take care to regularly steam-clean whatever fabrics you do keep as part of your décor. - Create an allergen-free space. “A bedroom is often the most practical choice,” recommends Dr. Steven 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 pillows.” - Clean the litterbox frequently, using low-dust, perfume-free litter—clumping litter is a good choice. - Vacuum frequently, using a vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter or disposable electrostatic bag. - Worried your allergies are so bad that you may have to give up your pet? Most people are allergic to several things besides pets, such as dust mites, molds and pollens. Allergic symptoms result from the total cumulative allergen load. That means that if you eliminate some of the other allergens, you may be able to live comfortably with your pet. Advises Hansen, “If you suspect that you or a member of your family has allergies, take them to a specialist who can determine the exact cause of your symptoms and help alleviate them.” Medications and desensitizing shots can often allow you and your companion animal to live happily together. en-us