KANSAS CITY, Mo., March 28, 2013 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Animal Clinic of Boardwalk Square in Kansas City, MO will be hosting a pet allergy education seminar on Saturday, March 30 from 12pm to 2pm. The seminar will discuss human allergies to pets, along with the best ways to manage these allergies. Dr. Chuck Siegel, a noted local allergist, will conduct the seminar. Dr. Siegel has extensive experience treating patients for a variety of different allergy problems, including pet allergies. Dr. Siegel will share tips for managing allergies, discuss which breeds are best for individuals with pet allergies, and how to reduce allergen exposure.
Pet owners and animal lovers who also suffer from pet allergies may learn more about how to manage these allergies at a free educational seminar given by Animal Clinic of Boardwalk Square.
The Kansas City veterinary hospital will be hosting allergist Dr. Chuck Siegel on Saturday, March 30 for a two-hour seminar, including a question and answer session. According to Dr. Siegel, approximately 10 percent of the U.S. population is allergic to pets.
"Some of our pet owners also have mild to moderate allergies to animals," said veterinarian Dr. Billie Deam, DVM. "Some pet owners may not know about these allergies until after they adopt their pets. Dr. Siegel will discuss ways that pet owners can best manage their allergies and reduce allergen exposure without having to surrender their pets."
Cat allergies are one of the most common pet allergies, says the veterinarian. Dr. Siegel will discuss strategies for treatment and management of pet allergies. Symptoms include coughing and wheezing, sneezing, red or itchy eyes, and a runny or stuffy nose. Dog allergies, while less common than cat allergies, trigger similar symptoms. Dog allergies can be challenging since nearly 40% of all American households own at least one dog, says veterinarian Dr. Deam.
For milder allergies, keeping certain rooms cat-free and dog-free, including the bedrooms, can make a significant difference. A vacuum with a HEPA filter is best for vacuuming up animal dander.
However, Dr. Siegel also cautions that pet dander can appear even in homes where there are no current pets, especially if the previous home owner had animals.
"Unfortunately, there is no way to fully prevent a pet allergy," said Dr. Deam. "However, there are steps that can be taken to minimize exposure to the allergen and the individual's symptoms after exposure. During the seminar Dr. Siegel will discuss several different options for addressing pet allergies."
The Kansas City North veterinary hospital provides comprehensive pet wellness care, including checkups, vaccinations and pet grooming.