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With over 63 per cent of Australian households owning pets, it seems it’s more important than ever to understand the symptoms of allergies as well as the ways to go about providing immediate and long-standing relief – without having to reduce the amount of contact with your furry friends.
Signs you’re allergic to your pet include sneezing and coughing during contact, red itchy eyes, nasal congestion, rashes or hives.
Keep your home and family safe with our top preventative measures and treatments.
Time-out in pet-free zones
Reducing how much pets are around areas where you spend a lot of time can minimise your contact with allergens. Keep pets out of busy zones like bedrooms.
Dust and vacuum regularly
People can be affected by a multitude of allergens from pets, from saliva, sweat, dead skin cells and, of course, hair. Dusting helps keep this to a minimum; clean hard surfaces weekly using a micro fibre cloth. Vacuuming regularly is also vital when avoiding a build-up of allergens in the home. Pick a vacuum cleaner with HEPA filtration like the Dyson V6 Absolute, which captures allergens and ensures that the air that leaves the machine is cleaner than the air you breathe.
Wash household fabrics regularly
Wash soft furnishings like couch cushions, rugs and mats frequently and tumble dry where possible to kill of bacteria.
Disinfect household surfaces
All of the major touch points where pets come into contact should be disinfected like doors, home entertainment units and floorboards. Antibacterial spray or disinfectant wipes are quick, easy ways to sanitise surfaces, or alternatively try using a steam mop. Make sure the family keeps hands and faces washed to avoid the spreading of germs – particularly with kids who put hands in mouths!
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