Why Pets Trigger Allergies

Learn the reasons pets can agitate your allergies and how to reduce it

It's not your pet's hair that's making you sneeze. It's the dander, saliva and urine that attaches itself to the hair that causes the problem. If this image makes you shudder, realize that you're not alone. Nearly three out of every 10 people in the US are allergic to pets, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. Luckily purchasing the right air filters for the home can help with the issue.

• Regular symptoms often include:

• Sneezing, Itching, Coughing, Watery Eyes, Stuffy Nose, Shortness of Breath, Rash, and Inflammation

• Allergens tend to ramp up during certain times of the year as well, and if you're someone who's sensitive, you're probably already aware that spring is the worst season for allergy sufferers. In the spring, tree and grass pollen gets carried into your home, mixing with the pet allergens already present, and worsening the air for allergy sufferers.

• Luckily, there are ways to limit and reduce the amount of allergens inside your home. Ensuring that your air filters are kept clean and well maintained can improve the quality of the indoor air. There are several points to keep in mind when choosing an air filter for families who keep indoor pets. You should opt for an air filter with a MERV 11 or higher. It's important to properly maintain air filters for the home for reasons other than comfort. Doing so will help lengthen the life of your HVAC system. It will also help your system use less energy -- a perk you'll be happy to see when your utility bill arrives every month.

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