 Saying goodbye to the family pet can be extremely difficult. Often, this is not an option, and immunotherapy is used to treat your pet allergy so that the Rover can remain in his loving homs . However, avoidance of allergens is still the best treatment, and when your pet must go, these tips might be helpful.
When Fluffy Must Go: Breaking The News
The best way to avoid pet allergies is obvious: Find a new home for the pet. But that's often easier said than done.
There's no question about the physical benefits that results from ridding the household of an allergy-causing pet. But losing the family pet can be emotionally devastating. Unfortunately, keeping the critter out of bedrooms isn't enough, since dander and saliva are airborne throughout the house and also can hitch a ride on clothing. Here's how to ease the pain of parting:
Honesty is the best policy
Don't pull punches or sugar-coat the reason when telling your children of the need to remove the pet. Don't blame the animal's behavior, or pretend the pet will be happier elsewhere. State the reason as it is: "We know that Fluffy is making your allergies worse, and we have to find another good home for her so you can feel better." Stress that you are making the decision, as a parent whose responsibility is to make sure your children are safe. Avoid using terms like "getting rid of " and other callous remarks.
Let children express their feelings
An allergic child may blame himself or herself for causing the problem, or be angry with you for deciding to remove the animal. Siblings also may cast blame, either at you or their allergic brother or sister or both. Don't allow scapegoating, but do allow each member of the family to share his or her views, without blame.
Be sensitive to the grieving process
Losing a pet, even by choice, will likely affect all family members. It may help to talk about the good times shared with the pet, and how those memories can be treasured forever.
 Make finding your pet's new digs a family affair
Have everyone in the family participate in locating a new home for the animal. It's helpful to have children be in charge of making a list of the pet's special needs, such as a big yard for running or a family with children. Then, the entire family should brainstorm suggestions on where and how to find a new home that meets the criteria. A good place to start is at your veterinarian's office.
Let the kids give their OK
Once you've found a home for your pet, let your kids check it out and give it their stamp of approval. You may want to first check with your doctor to make sure this won't set off allergies, but it can help bring closure to your child's worries. Of course, if your children don't approve of what appears to be a good replacement residence, it could be their fear of losing their animal. If that's the case, sit down with them and ask them to articulate exactly what is wrong with the new home.
|
