House Visitor Is Afraid of or Allergic to Dogs – What to Do

What to Do When One of Your Visitors Is Afraid of or Allergic to Dogs

A dogless household does not necessarily indicate less dog love. Some people, despite an early love for pooches, may have had traumatic encounters with dogs that caused them to avoid these lovely animals later in life. Much worse are those who are left with no choice but to love dogs from a distance due to deadly allergies.

As a fur parent, you probably know some friends or maybe family members who simply can’t rub elbows with your pooch for the said reasons. This makes it extra difficult to host guests and family get-togethers during holidays.

But does having a furry friend make you a social pariah to your friends? Of course not! There are things you can do to make your home safe and welcome to your guests.

What to Do When One of Your Visitors Is Afraid of or Allergic to Dogs

• Determine How Long Your Guests Are Staying

You can very well manage and prepare for short-term visits. However, if your house guest is allergic and needs to stay in your abode for a week, it’s probably better to arrange other accommodations for their safety.

On the other hand, if you have a visitor who is just not particularly fond of dogs, be sure to ask and talk about it. They can choose to give the pooch a chance and maybe strike up a new friendship. But it that’s not an option, it’s probably best for their peace of mind to find a different accommodation.

• Clean Aggressively

The faintest trace of protein present in dog saliva, urine, dander, and even dead skin cells can send an allergic person to the emergency room. So get the vacuum out, and raid the whole house for pet allergens, especially in the guest bedrooms. Pet dander is common in the carpet, upholstered furniture, and in common living areas.

If possible, get your carpet cleaned professionally and limit your pet’s access to the guest rooms as much as possible.

• Use an Air Purifier with a HEPA Filter

HEPAs, or high-efficiency particulate air filters, are types of filters that are effective at capturing microscopic particles such as pollen, mold, dander, and dust, which are common allergens.

Run the filter throughout the house, especially in the guest areas. Most importantly, maintain a purifier in the guest bedroom.

• Keep a Special Place or Room in the House for Your Pooch

It’s counterproductive to let your pet roam after you’ve rid the house of every inch of dog fur. If you don’t want a do over, reserve a special room in the house for them where they can spend their time while your guests are around.

Make it as comfortable for them as possible, perhaps with their best toys or some of their favorite snacks.

Of course, you can always let them enjoy the yard. But if they’re indoor pets or the weather is not especially cooperative, curating an emergency pet room is your best option.

• Bathe Your Dog

Reduce the regular intensity of fur or dander shedding by giving your dog some bath time before your guest’s visit. Don’t use medicated shampoos or wipes on your dog unless it was recommended by your veterinarian.

If you want to be very thorough, get a professional to do it.

• Keep Allergy Medicines Handy

Despite all the proactive procedures you have taken to prevent the worst, accidents do happen. It’s always better to be prepared. Keep stock of OTC allergy medications for emergencies. Common antihistamines sold over the counter include cetirizine (Zyrtec), diphenhydramine (Benadryl), and fexofenadine (Allegra).

Decongestants help relieve congestion and reduce swelling in the nose. Nasal steroids can also relieve the symptoms of allergies.

• Know the Symptoms and Treat Them before They Get Worse

Keep an eye on the symptoms before they blow out of proportion. The most common symptoms of someone allergic to dogs or other pets show as the following:

• A skin rash that’s almost hive-like
• Sneezing and wheezing
• Itchy and watery eyes
• Nasal congestion

Final Word

Around 37 percent to 47 percent of Americans have dogs as part of the household. Although these pets are considered part of the family, some realities simply cannot be changed and deserve compromise. Be an example of responsible pet ownership by following these tips.

Guest Article.