Breathe Easier with Pets and Asthma

Written by Doris Donnerman (last updated February 17, 2009)

If someone wants a pet, it seems unfair that anyone should be prevented from that. Some people have asthma and living with pets can sometimes aggravate that, making it hard to even keep a pet. Even though most pets are happier living inside with you, asthma sufferers may have to keep pets outside. Fortunately though, there are ways to make both you and your pet happy; try these tips and you can definitely have your cake and eat it too.

If you keep your pet outside more than you keep it inside, then your problems will be relatively minimal. Without regular contact with your pet inside, your sinuses and nasal passages won't be aggravated as easily, and so your asthma won't be such a big problem. Whenever your dog does come inside though, take preventative measures. All you have to do is wipe your dog down with a damp cloth. This targets the dander that gets caught in your pet's coat, and by removing that, then you significantly reduce the chance of your asthma cropping up. Also, before your pet comes in, you'll want to brush it out outside to get most of that dander and dust out of its fur while its still outside.

If your pet is primarily an inside pet, then your asthma might be a bit more of a problem. If your pet is an inside pet, then you need to be aware of these few things. Don't let your pet stay in your bedroom or bathrooms. If your pet is allowed inside, there is a big chance that the dust and dander from your pet will settle more in the house, making it so that your asthma can be triggered more.

You do need to be aware however, that if your asthma poses a significant problem to your health, then you should give your pet away. Consult with your vet and doctor, and see if there's any logical and feasible compromise, but you always need to make your own health a priority. By consulting your doctor, you might be able to find some kind of remedy that's not too inconvenient or expensive, but you always need to keep your own health as your primary concern. If you having a pet is hindering your own efforts at maintaining your health, then something needs to be done. No pet is precious enough for it to be a serious health risk.

Author Bio

Doris Donnerman

Doris is a jack of all trades, writing on a variety of topics. Her articles have helped enlighten and entertain thousands over the years. ...

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