allergy questions

Hi everyone-- We got Oscar despite the fact that I have allergies. I see an allergist and his tests show that I do have dog allergy but it is only very minor (a slight allergy), whereas all of my other allergies are major. I am very allergic to cats! The last 2 days have been hell for me. I am sure that it's the season but I am not usually this bad. I think that some of the reason is that Oscar goes into the bushes looking for all of the stray cats that are usually around my apartment complex, then he comes in and I play with him.

Another reason for my recent problems is that before I had a dog, I would not spend a lot of time walking in grassy areas, and if it was a really bad pollen day, I would be in much of the time, but now I must walk Oscar.

Question: If I bathe him very often will that help? I would think that a dog's dander is still there no matter what, but if he picks up scents like grass or trees or cats from outside, I guess it makes sense to wash it off. However, I don't want to dry out his skin or bathe him more often than is good for him. I have heard so many stories about how often is ok and I am confused. As y'all know, I love the smell of his new shampoo, so I'll bathe him as often as needed as long as it is not harmful.

I refuse to give him up. Someone please tell me that this is probably more from the season than from my dog!!!!!

Invest in a Vicks Hepa filter. T Hey clean the air of dust, dander, and other pollutants.

I have two. One in the living room and the other is in the bedroom,

Also, purchase vitamin supplements called 'Hugs and Kisses'. They are sold in Petco. This will help eliminate some of the dander in your dog and the strays.