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Cures for Allergies to Dogs

While there may not be an actual cure for allergies to dogs, there are a myriad of treatments and methods to manage and minimize the common allergic reactions we have to our canine companions. Most are fairly painless and make living with a pet much more enjoyable. Of course, the easiest method of remedying a dog allergy is to avoid any contact with our four-legged friends, but sometimes, that's easier said than done.

  1. Allergy Medications

    • Depending on what your doctor recommends, you may get fairly positive results by enlisting the help of your standard allergy medications. Antihistamines and decongestants are both effective over-the-counter options to momentarily "cure" a dog allergy. These would need to be taken each day to maintain results. Corticosteroids, like Nasonex or Flonase, can be sprayed directly into the nose to reduce the impact of dog allergens. There is also something called a "leukotriene modifier," which is a prescription medication that works directly on the immune system to minimize the allergic reaction you have to a dog.

    Asthma Medications

    • Another effective method for managing any dog allergies you have is to use an asthma medication. Again, this will be something you and your doctor will need to discuss before this course of treatment is put into place. Asthma medications use some of the same basic medications as standard allergy treatments, such as corticosteroids, leukotriene modifiers and cromolyn sodium solutions, but also utilize other drugs, such as theophylline, salmeterol and formoterol (all bronchodilators). Basically, what these forms of treatment do is reduce any inflammation and irritation you may experience in your airways from dog proteins and particles.

    Immunotherapy

    • If you and your doctor decide that this form of treatment is right for you, he may decide to put you through a course of immunotherapy, which is essentially a way to alter your immune system. What happens is you will be subjected to a series of shots that contain the protein of a dog. It is an insignificant amount, but enough to get your immune system accustomed to the substance. Over time, the amount is systematically increased so that your immune system will become less and less sensitive to dogs.

    Regular Bathing

    • While most of the "cures" for dog allergies have focused on you, there is something you can do to your dog to reduce the impact she has on those allergies. Since you're actually allergic to the dog's saliva, as well as her urine and glands, regular bathing can minimize the presence of these bodily fluids on your canine companion. Though Maggie may not be too keen on the method, weekly baths should be more than enough to lessen your allergic reaction to her, according to the Mayo Clinic.

    Air Filters

    • Once you've started using an allergy or asthma medication and established a routine for bathing your pet, you should also consider investing in an air filter for your home. What these devices do is actually remove any of those allergens that may be floating around in the air of your home. By using the services of an air filter, coupled with the other forms of treatment, you and your pet can live a happy (sneeze-free) life with one another.

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