Pet allergies are a common challenge for many, yet a significant number of Britons are still willing to live with furry companions despite the discomfort. Managing allergy symptoms while owning a pet may seem daunting, but with the right strategies, it’s possible to enjoy the company of pets without suffering from allergies.
Allevia’s Findings: A Nation of Pet Lovers
In a recent survey conducted by allergy relief brand Allevia, 1,000 British allergy sufferers shared how they manage their symptoms at home. The results highlighted that one in four Brits with pet allergies remain open to adopting pets, underscoring the strong bond between humans and animals. Allevia also provided practical tips on how to reduce allergens in the home, ensuring allergy sufferers can coexist with their pets more comfortably.
Creating Pet-Free Zones
One effective way to manage allergies is to designate specific areas of your home as pet-free zones. This can be particularly helpful in rooms like the bedroom or living room, where dander and fur are less likely to accumulate. While it may be challenging to enforce strict no-pet zones, especially in smaller spaces, regularly cleaning these areas can reduce allergen levels, resulting in improved air quality and relief from symptoms.
Invest in Air Filtration Systems
Air filters, particularly HEPA filters, are a great investment for those with pet allergies. These filters can remove up to 99.97% of airborne particles, including dust and pet dander. Installing an air filter in high-traffic areas or rooms where pets frequent can significantly improve indoor air quality and reduce the severity of allergy symptoms.
Regularly Wash Pet Bedding
Pets bring joy, but they also bring allergens. Washing pet bedding, toys, and blankets regularly is crucial for controlling allergen levels in your home. Use hot, soapy water combined with an anti-allergen detergent to eliminate dander. Ensuring these items are thoroughly cleaned can prevent the spread of allergens, making your environment safer for those with allergies.
Opt for Hard Flooring
Carpet fibres often harbour allergens such as pet dander, making them a poor choice for homes with allergy sufferers. Consider switching to hard flooring options like wood, tile, or laminate, which are easier to clean and less likely to trap allergens.
Allergy-Free Pet Ownership on the Rise
Despite the challenges, the UK’s pet-loving population remains steadfast. The survey revealed that 1 in 4 Brits with pet allergies still aspire to adopt animals. Regular house cleaning, the use of air filters, and even essential oils like tea tree oil were cited as popular methods for managing symptoms. These findings reflect the lengths people are willing to go to in order to keep pets in their lives.
The Science Behind the Pet-Human Bond
Scientific studies highlight the emotional and physical benefits of pet ownership. For example, stroking a pet can release oxytocin, a hormone linked to reduced stress and lower blood pressure. However, for those suffering from airborne allergies, the benefits of owning a pet may be dampened by symptoms such as sneezing or itchy eyes. According to Allevia’s research, more than 1 in 4 Brits are allergic to animal dander, with the allergy being the third most common airborne allergen in the UK, following pollen and dust.
Generational Differences in Allergy Management
The survey also found that younger generations, particularly Gen Z, are more affected by pet allergies, with 40% of under-24s reporting allergic reactions to pets. Despite this, they remain the group most likely to endure the symptoms for the sake of keeping a pet. On the other hand, older Millennials (ages 35-44) were more likely to avoid pets altogether due to allergies, with 22% reporting a pet-free home.
Action Taken to Avoid Symptoms by Age Group
| Action | 18-24 | 25-34 | 35-44 | 45-54 | 55-64 | 65+ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avoid having pets at home | 18% | 14% | 22% | 16% | 17% | 20% |
| Avoid having plants at home | 29% | 35% | 30% | 36% | 32% | 32% |
Serious Health Risks for Allergy Sufferers
While mild symptoms such as sneezing may seem manageable, 1 in 10 Brits reported experiencing severe health complications from airborne allergies. Some respondents even reported being hospitalised due to breathing difficulties triggered by allergens. The impact extends beyond health, with nearly half of respondents avoiding social gatherings, and 1 in 4 admitting they have taken time off work due to allergy symptoms.
Managing Allergies Without Giving Up Pets
Despite the challenges, the majority of allergy sufferers are finding ways to live with their symptoms while still keeping pets. Over half of respondents reported relying on regular cleaning, including hoovering and dusting, to manage their symptoms. Some even turned to air filters and natural remedies like tea tree oil to help ease their discomfort. As Michael from Kent, a survey respondent, said, “I would never swap my dog for a sneeze-free life.”
For many Brits, the love for their pets outweighs the inconvenience of allergies. With a combination of cleaning routines, air filtration, and allergen management strategies, it’s possible to enjoy the benefits of pet ownership without compromising on health.