How to limit the risks of pet allergies naturally?

We love them, we adore them, but... cats and dogs can also cause allergies, predominantly because of their hair but also due to their saliva. They are the third most common source of allergies after dust mites and pollens. How to reduce the risk of allergies without having to say goodbye to your beloved pet?

PETS: OUR BELOVED FRIENDS

The problem is not so much their hair but more the saliva they put on it. But after all, what difference does it make? For the nose and bronchial tubes, it's the same: we cough, our nose runs, we're merely allergic. Some families are forced to separate from their favourite animal and that's very sad. Before reaching this disappointing end for everyone, consider welcoming an animal, especially if you (or one of your children) are already allergic. However, if you are a pet owner, a few right daily actions can mostly limit the damage.

Firstly, by brushing them outside as often as much as possible (you can do it every day!). And of course by frequently vacuuming up hairs that have fallen everywhere, even invisible. Then, you can block off areas you don't want your dog to get into (bedrooms in particular), even if everyone knows that it is difficult to forbid anything to a cat! If they still manage to get into "sensitive" rooms, it is imperative to carefully ventilate fabrics or bedding. Some cats appear to be less sensitizing. Females are less sensitizing than males, and sterilized animals develop fewer allergens. But the best solution is always to ventilate and repeat brushing/cleaning!

BANISH PET ODOURS

Put 10 drops of lemongrass essential oil into a plant mister bottle, add 300 ml of water, shake carefully and spray into all. The "clean air" tip: Dogs, cats, rabbits... Prefer short hair. Prevent children from sticking their noses in the fur, which they love to do. Set aside a small space of their own, i.e., a cage/basket on a tiled floor. The idea is to limit the dispersion of allergens in the air.

Extracts from 'Anti-Pollution Guide for a Healthy House' by Isabelle PACCHIONI, Leduc edition, Top Santé's Guide '48 Essential Oils which every home needs to be healthy' and '100 Pure air reflexes', Leduc edition.