Springtime is the most common season for allergies for both people and pets, but some allergy sufferers battle the sneezing, wheezing and itchiness all year long.

Here are the best products to help people and pets breathe a little easier.

Products that help people

Allerpet C is formulated specifically for cats and for people allergic to cats.  It cleanses the hair of saliva and dander, the prime causes of allergic reactions to cats.  Non-toxic and safe to use on kittnes.

Allerpet D is formulated specifically for dogs and for people allergic to dogs.  It cleanses the hair of saliva, dander and sebaceous gland secretions, the prime causes of allergic reactions to dogs.  Non-toxic and safe to use on puppies.

FURminator products, including de-shedding tools, de-shedding shampoo and de-shedding solution address the number one complaint of pet owners by reducing shedding by up to 90%.  The de-shedding tools come in various sizes and dramatically reduce shedding by removing the undercoat and loose hair.  The Shampoo and Solution are enriched with Omega 3 Fatty Acids, vitamins and oatmeal to help promote healthy skin and reduce shedding.

Products that help pets

Derma 3 products offer a unique, potent fatty acid formula to help control allergy itching and promote healthy skin and coats in dogs and cats.  It contains omega 3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) and antioxidant vitamins A and E.

Chlorpheniramine is an over the counter antihistamine that is commonly used in dogs and cats for the temporary relief of allergy symptoms.

Allerg-3 contains Omega-3 fatty acids derived from fish oil.  These fatty acids help decrease allergy related itchniness in the skin by interfering with the production of the inflammatory substances that cause itching.

Prozyme is a palatable, plant-derived enzyme powder that is sprinkled on, or mixed into, your pet's food.  The enhanced bio-availability of the vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids unlocked by Prozyme are particularly effective for helping allergies and other skin problems.

Allermyl Shampoo is a unique micro-emulsion formulation specifically developed for effective control of itching in dogs and cats.

Other things you can do

1)  Ask your veterinarian about adding Acepromazine to your pet's drinking water.  This is an old, often overlooked remedy to help people who are allergic to dogs and/or cats.  Acepromazine is a prescription medication labeled for use as a tranquilizer, but can be helpful in reducing pet dander when given in tiny amounts.  The usual dosage is:  100mg ace tabs crushed, add to 50ml of water & administer 2 drops to water dish daily.

2)  For temporary relief of itchy skin, especially hives, fill the bathtub with tepid water and add 1 cup of baking soda, mixing it in well.  Soak in the tub for 10 minutes (good for pets and people).

3) Try an ionic air cleaner to help remove allergens from the air in your home.  Airborne/inhalant allergens are the most common ailment of allergy sufferers.

4) Many pets suffer from food allergies as well.  Consider having your pet tested for allergies by either your regular veterinarian or a pet dermatologist.  The test is simple, not that expensive (usually between $100 - $300) and can take ALL the guesswork out of what the heck is causing all that itching!  Beef is a very common allergen for pets, so if your pet is allergic to it, don't forget to ask your vet about an alternative heartworm prevention if you use the chewable once a month type (beef is the main ingredient!).

If you've found a product that works wonders for you or your pet that is not mentioned here, drop me a line and let me know about it.