Allergies are no fun--for people or dogs. Fortunately, it's now possible for people who are allergic to dogs to experience canine companionship thanks to nasal sprays that ease allergy symptoms. And dogs who suffer from allergies can also be helped by sprays formulated to breakdown and neutralize allergens.
Human Allergy Causes
For people, allergies are caused by allergens that exist in canine hair, urine, feces and saliva. The main culprit, however, is dander, or skin flakes. And before you think that hairless or "hypoallergenic" dog is the solution, be advised that despite the name, they can produce allergens. Even after a thorough house cleaning, allergens still hang around on clothes, carpets and furniture--even if the dog no longer lives there.
Nasal Sprays
Medicines can ease your allergy symptoms. According to the Humane Society of the United States, steroidal and antihistamine nose sprays may help an allergy sufferer live comfortably with pets. Less used, but highly effective, steroid nasal sprays provide relief for all nasal allergy symptoms, such as congestion and discharge. Antihistamine sprays block the effect of histamine, a substance in the body causing nasal stuffiness and dripping.
Canine Allergy Causes
For dogs, allergies can be caused for a number of reasons, and as with people, allergens are to blame. Some dogs have atopic dermatitis caused by seasonal allergies to pollen, grass, or dust. Others get allergies from contact with an offending material such as plastic, as well as flea or insect bites. Other dogs are affected by inhalants, including chemicals or perfumes, while still others are allergic to certain foods and food additives.
Canine Sprays
In the case of seasonal allergies, a dog's symptoms can be managed with medications, such as topical products including sprays. These sprays may contain ingredients such as antihistamines, steroids and topical anesthetics that help to soothe a dog's itching. Other natural sprays can help to relieve a dog's hot spots (skin irritations) caused by flea and pollen allergies. These sprays may contain natural ingredients such as tea tree oil, chamomile and aloe vera.
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Writer Bio
Debra Levy has been writing for more than 30 years. She has had fiction and nonfiction published in various literary journals. Levy holds an M.A. in English from Indiana University and an M.F.A. in creative writing/fiction from the Bennington Writing Seminars.