Be a Responsible Pet Owner
Considering adopting or purchasing a pet is a lot like planning for a baby. You may have been dreaming of it for years but you have no idea what comes with the package. The more you prepare yourself for a life with a new family member, the better the chance you have of enjoying it.
Read on to find out about nine vital things to consider before making your dream of owning a pet come true.
Coughing and Sneezing: Do You Have Pet Allergies?
According to the Allergy And Asthma Foundation of America, about 30% of Americans are allergic to dogs or cats. If you are planning to get a dog or a cat, make sure to check if you have these allergic reactions. There are two ways to do it:
- Spend sufficient time in a household with a cat/dog
- Talk to an allergist
The first one is easier but it may not tell you the truth since allergies are usually cumulative. So you may need to spend a month in a house with a pet to find out if you are allergic. A doctor will offer an allergen-specific antibody test to find out what you’re allergic to. Don’t be scared, it’s just a blood test.
Some people overlook the allergies and get a pet anyway. In this case, you may need to take medication and get an air purifier to deal with the symptoms. If you have allergies, check out a few hypoallergenic pet options.
