For those who suffer from pet allergies, the most common type of reaction is a respiratory one. Sneezing, wheezing, congestion, puffy eyes are often symptoms of pet allergies. There are also skin reactions that can accompany pet allergies. These can include itching, redness, and hives. As puzzling as allergies can often be, some people can exhibit one type of reaction without necessarily exhibiting both.

For the respiratory symptoms, the first step is to get away from the allergen. Once you remove yourself from the situation, to help to relief coughing, sneezing, congestion, watery eyes, etc., an over the counter antihistamine generally provides quick relief. For those who may suffer an asthma attack because of pet allergies, rescue inhalers can open airways and provide relief.

Hives caused by pet dander can create a slightly different set of circumstances. Hives are the byproduct of histamine which causes small amounts of the blood's plasma to leak into the skin. This is why you often see raised, red bumps or many that merge together to form patches or "plaques". Hives itch and burn, and can last anywhere from a few minutes to days.

Hives can be treated with several types of products, and as with other allergic reactions, remove the trigger first. Before you buy something from your local pharmacy, try cooling the area first with a cool compress or even ice. Avoid tight-fitting clothing and the use of hot water or harsh soaps on the affected area. In terms of over the counter medications, antihistamines will help some, but have the greatest benefit when used very shortly after or prior to exposure (to help prevent hives). Other types of anti-itch lotions can prevent scratching and topical analgesics or steroid creams can reduce the swelling, pain, and itching from hives. In severe instances, a shot of epinephrine can be administered.

Related to hives is angioedema. Angioedema is similar to hives with the biggest difference being that the swelling occurs beneath the skin instead of as raised welts and that the swelling is often localized around the eyes, mouth, hands or feet. Angioedema is most often associated with food allergies, but can be brought about by many types of allergens. Treatment of angioedema is the same as hives - remove the allergen, treat the symptom and if severe, visit the doctor.

For reactions caused by pets or pet dander, avoidance is key. If finding a new home for your favorite pet isn't an option, there are some simple steps you can take to reduce the dander that you come in contact with. For removing dander from the air use a sealed, HEPA air purifier, and vacuum with a quality HEPA vacuum cleaner. Both can remove dander that can be in the air, on the furniture and throughout your home. Limit areas of the home where the pet can roam. Ideally, this means you keep your pet out of your bedroom and off of your bed.

In terms of caring for your pet, regular and frequent brushing can remove excess hair that often holds dander, and by using an anti-allergen pet shampoo with more frequent baths, you can remove dander from your pet's coat.

For me personally, I have no reaction to my dog unless he snuggles up against me. I bathe him with the pet shampoo by Ecology works and frequently dust and sweep (hard flooring only in my home). I also limit the areas of the house available to him by keeping my bedroom door closed. Occasionally I do let him sleep on my leather couch with me, though I throw an Allergy Armor mattress cover over the couch and my blanket to create a barrier between his hair and dander. So while there are many options, even a few simple steps such as these can reduce pet dander and limit both respiratory reactions and skin conditions like hives.

Author: K. Gilmore