How to Reduce Pet Allergens

Most pet owners refuse to get rid of their pet in spite of their allergies. Here are ways to reduce pet allergens if the pet is still in the home.

Here's How:

1. Try to limit your pet's access in your home. Keep it especially out of the bedroom.
2. Floors should be vacuumed or mopped thoroughly, walls wiped down with a damp cloth, and rooms aired out regularly to reduce the level of pet allergen.
3. Change or clean air conditioner and furnace filters often.
4. Use washable curtains or window shades instead of venetian blinds or heavy draperies.
5. Avoid use of carpets, soft upholstered furniture, and draperies.
6. Wash and brush your pet once every 7 to 10 days. Try to do this outside of the home.
7. Enclose pillows, mattress, and box springs in nonallergenic casings. Use nonallergic, washable bedding materials. Wash all bedding in hot water weekly.
8. Wash the pet's bedding and toys frequently also.
9. Place a screen made of cheesecloth or other thin material over bedroom vents to keep dander from circulating into the bedroom from the central heating/cooling system.
10. If you have carpet, steam clean it several times a year.
    

Tips:

1. A special filter should be used on the vacuum cleaner to prevent redepositing the allergen into the air.
2. Be sure to always wash your hands after each time you touch or play with your pet. You may even want to shower and change your clothing.