Mold allergies are among the most common types of allergies. There are numerous types of molds and they can thrive in a humid environment and can be present in homes as well. Mold allergies can affect humans and pets alike. Mold allergy relief is available; however, it is recommended to get rid of the mold, as it may present a peril to the health of the pet and your family. Until the mold is gone, there are a few treatments that can be applied.
Antihistamines
Antihistamines can be effective in controlling the allergic reactions of dogs to mold. The drugs will suppress the immune system and the histamines will not be produced, so there will be no allergic symptoms.
Talk to your vet to recommend the most suitable types of antihistamines for your pet and check back periodically, as antihistamines have to be rotated to maintain their effectiveness.
Steroid Creams and Medications
Steroid creams are efficient in managing the skin reactions and should be used to reduce swelling and itchiness.
Steroid drugs can also be administered orally, if the dog has severe allergic reactions.
Steroids shouldn’t be administered to dogs that have liver of kidney problems.
The medications should not be administered for a longer period of time.
Allergy Shots
The vet may recommend allergy shots if the dog is also allergic to other factors besides mold. The injections are meant to make the dog immune to the irritants. However, the effect of the allergy shots is only visible after 3 to 6 months of treatment. Until then, the dog should get different allergy drugs.
Eliminate the Mold
Mold may be an allergen and some types of mold can cause respiratory problems. The black mold is known to be the most dangerous type of mold and can be fatal to sensitive people or pets.
Mold may occur in wet or moist areas and you may detect it growing on walls, roofs and even your carpets and furniture.
Eliminating the mold is essential to get rid of the allergic reactions.
The mold may be eliminated with diluted bleach or apple cider vinegar. Get some supplies such as sponges, a mop, knife, sand paper, gloves, goggles and a breathing mask for protection.
Isolate the affected areas and put on the goggles, the gloves and the breathing mask, as you may be exposed to mold and different infections when cleaning the mold.
If you have drywall, you will need to remove this using the knife, as the mold cannot be cleaned from these areas. Use sandpaper to remove he mold form all the rest of the remaining areas and then apply some diluted bleach or vinegar. If the mold is located on the carpet or furniture use only the vinegar. Allow the solution to penetrate the treated areas for 15 minutes and then wash the areas with water. Reapply a new drywall and install a dehumidifier to prevent the recurrence of mold.