The 'allergy time bomb' lurking in your wet pup's fur and making your hay fever worse
Scots owner may not have realised that wet dogs are making their hay fever worse this spring
Scotland might be losing the spring sunshine for a few days, after the Met Office predicted a dip in temperatures after basking in a mini heatwave. Unfortunately it doesn't mean hay fever or seasonal allergies will disappear.
In the UK, one in four people suffer from hay fever every year. The symptoms, including sneezing and irritated eyes, are often worsened for pet owners, as their four-legged friends bring pollen from the outside world into the home.
During the nice weather, families have been flocking to the seaside for a relaxing retreat with their four-legged friends. However, as pollen clings more easily to wet fur, it could be making their hay fever much worse.
Luckily, pet door suppliers doorsplus.com.au have shared six expert tips to combat hay fever hell this spring.
1. Bicarbonate of soda when washing pet bedding and accessories
Owners should wash their pet's bedding and accessories, including all collars, harnesses, leads, and outside clothing, every two to four weeks. This is because the fabric can deposit pollen and dirt throughout the home.
To clean them effectively, soak pet bedding and accessories in warm water and washing up liquid for at least 20 minutes. If odours and stains persist, put them in the washing machine with a gentle, pet-friendly detergent.
Bicarbonate of soda is a saving grace for dog owners suffering from allergies.
If in doubt, add two teaspoons to warm soapy water when soaking. Owners can also create a paste with two teaspoons of bicarbonate of soda and a small amount of water to target stubborn fabrics.
2. Discover every owner's 'miracle' balm
Owners can use allergen barrier balms to avoid hay fever disasters. For example, there are balm products aimed at humans that trap allergens when applied around the nostrils and orbital bone.
There are a range of such balms available on Amazon at varying prices, but one we have spotted that comes with three different balms is the HayMax Allergen Barrier Balm Triple Tin which costs £16.98.
There are also lesser-known products aimed at pets. When applied to a pet's paws and coat, nourishing balms act as a protective layer against pesky pollen. This reduces the risk of allergens being transferred throughout the home.
3. Store pet-friendly cleaning products in the car
Hay fever symptoms worsen in enclosed spaces. Driving in a car after a dog walk, for example, is the ideal time for allergens to spread, especially as owners are hesitant to open the window and allow more pollen inside.
As such, owners should stock their cars with adequate cleaning supplies, such as a vacuum and pet-friendly wipes. A quick hoover or wipe-down can help reduce the risk of allergy attacks while getting from the park to the sofa.3
4. Invest in allergy-blocking gadgets
Every pet owner should invest in high-quality grooming tools, especially if they are eager to reduce the symptoms of hay fever as pet fur can spread pollen and other allergens found outside.
Electrostatic grooming tools are a great way to remove allergens from pet fur.
Whether people prefer using brushes or vacuums, these handy gadgets can help make homes pollen free this spring.
Electromagnetic mats are also useful for reducing the spread of allergens as they collect stray pollen and dander found on pets. It's best practice to place these mats by doors, couches and pet beds.
Wear pollen-repelling clothing
The clothing owners and pets wear when leaving the house can exacerbate hay fever symptoms.
Owners should avoid dog coats made from cotton, for example, as pollen gets easily caught in the fibres.
Instead, prioritise clothing made from smooth materials, such as nylon and polyester, as these are easier to wipe clean after time spent outside. It's important to choose breathable fabrics as the warmer months approach.
Correctly wash your pet
Owners should wash their pets to remove allergens such as pollen and dander. The frequency depends on the animal, with dogs needing to be bathed approximately once a month unless dirty.
However, some owners are doing this wrong.
It's important to avoid over washing pets as this can lead to them developing dry and sensitive skin. Instead, owners should focus on rinsing paws and using pet-friendly wipes on fur after encountering pollen and other allergens.
By following these steps, owners will significantly reduce the risk of worsening their hay fever symptoms this spring.
Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community!
Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today.
You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland.
No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team.
All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in!
If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'.
We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like.
To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Edinburgh Reporter
17 minutes ago
- Edinburgh Reporter
King's Birthday Honours include more than one hundred Scots
Scots who have contributed to their communities and country are celebrated in His Majesty The King's Birthday Honours List 2025 which has just been published. There are 1,215 recipients in total who have been awarded for their exceptional achievements, with a particular focus this year on those who have given their time to public service and 110 of those are from Scotland. This year's recipients include community champions, role models in sport, pioneers in the arts, passionate health workers, and supporters of young people. Recipients from Scotland make up 9% of the total number of recipients receiving honours this year. Among notable names on the list,(although widely reported ahead of time) footballer David Beckham receives a knighthood for services to Sport and to Charity. Pam Duncan-Glancy MSP has received an MBE for political and public service. The Labour MSP is the first permanent wheelchair user elected to The Scottish Parliament. And author and Scottish historian, Alistair Moffat, becomes MBE. Sir Antony Gormley who sculpted the six figures which appear in the Water of Leith receives the Order of the Companions of Honour. Anne Glover who was the the first ever Chief Scientific Adviser for Scotland receives a Damehood. Roger Daltrey, CBE, of The Who, receives a knighthood From Edinburgh the honorees include Shirley Jamieson, the former 'lollipop lady' in Juniper Green, and Frank Donoghue who ran the City Chambers for forty years. Others who received an honour include: Professor Julie Fitzpatrick, OBE, FRSE, Chief Scientific Adviser to The Scottish Government, who receives a CBE for services to science. Professor Gabriele Clarissa Hegerl, FRS, FRSE, Professor of Climate System Science, University of Edinburgh, a CBE for services to Climate Science Professor Rowland Raymond Kao, Professor of Veterinary Epidemiology and Data Science, University of Edinburgh, a CBE for services to Mathematics and Infectious Disease Dynamics Yvonne Cecelia Elizabeth Leavy (Yvonne Sibson) Lead Epilepsy Nurse, NHS Lothian, an OBE for services to Epilepsy Nursing Catherine Anne Macdonald (Kiki Macdonald) Co-Founder and Trustee, Euan 's Guide, an OBE for services to People with Disabilities. Dr Alastair John MacGilchrist, Chair, Scottish Health Action on Alcohol Problems, an OBE for services to Medicine and Public Health. John Grant Macrae an OBE for Charitable Services in Scotland. Duncan Andrew Moss, Technical Relationship Consultant, Ordnance Survey, an OBE for services to Technical Consultancy and to Government Resilience Major (Rtd) Charles Matthew Pelling, Manager, Lady Haig Poppy Factory, PoppyScotland, an OBE for services to Veterans. Alexander James Samuel Stewart. Senior Statistician, Office of the Chief Economic Adviser, Scottish Government, an OBE for services to Scottish Economic Statistics David Dewar Storrar, Senior Statistician, Office of the Chief Economic Adviser, Scottish Government, an OBE for services to Scottish Economic Statistics Karen Valerie Watt Lately Chief Executive Officer, Scottish Funding Council, an OBE for Public Service Anthea Margaret Donaghue, Lately Chair, Pregnancy Counselling and Care Scotland, an MBE for services to Pregnancy Support in Edinburgh Malcolm John Kirby, Volunteer, Red Dot Radio, an MBE for services to Hospitals in Edinburgh Professor Donna-Jean Corrigan O'Boyle, Professional Adviser to the Chief Nursing Officer's Directorate, Scottish Government, an MBE for services to Improving Patient Safety Melvyn Westley Roffe, Lately School Principal, George Watson's College, Edinburgh, an MBE for services to Education and to the community in Edinburgh Lesley Stephen, Patient Advocate, Make 2nds Count, an MBE for services to People with Secondary Breast Cancer and to Cancer Research Bridget Mary Stevens, Pioneer, Audio Description, Edinburgh an MBE for services to the Arts The following are Medallists of the Order of the British Empire Alan Borthwick, Artistic Director, Edinburgh Gilbert and Sullivan Society for services to Music Frank Donoghue, Lately Locality Hub Team Leader, City of Edinburgh Council for Public Service in Edinburgh Thomas Douglas, Veterans Community Support Manager, Royal British Legion Scotland. For services to Veterans in Scotland Shirley Jamieson, Lately School Crossing Patrol Person, City of Edinburgh. For services to the Safety of Pedestrians in Juniper Green. David Liston Lyle, Musical Director, Edinburgh Gilbert and Sullivan Society. For services to Music Margaret McPhillips Manson Founder, Edinburgh Technician Network. For services to the Provision of Sciences in Education in Edinburgh The First Minister said: 'My congratulations and thanks to The King's Birthday Honours recipients who have each made outstanding contributions to community and public life in Scotland. 'The recipients of The King's Police, Fire or Ambulance Service Medals demonstrate lives dedicated to keeping others safe and supporting communities. I sincerely thank them for their service and commitment.' Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: 'This year's Birthday Honours List is a powerful reminder of the extraordinary dedication, compassion, and service that exists in every corner of our country. 'From community champions to cultural icons, each recipient reflects the very best of Britain. I extend my heartfelt congratulations and gratitude to them all.' The Secretary of State for Scotland, Ian Murray, said: 'I am delighted to congratulate all those recognised in the King's Birthday Honours list, particularly John and Linda Norgrove on their well-deserved OBEs for their extraordinary humanitarian work in Afghanistan through the Linda Norgrove Foundation. Their dedication to improving the lives of Afghan women and girls, born from personal tragedy, exemplifies the very best of Scottish compassion and resolve. 'Communities across Scotland benefit from the extraordinary effort of those honoured. From Dr Richa Sinha Chair of the Scottish Hindu society and their work to tackle Hinduphobia, to Zahrah Mahmood Chair of the Rambling Society to Heather Hall founding The Usual Place in Dumfries. 'I would also like to extend special recognition to Scotland Office's own Moira Vance on receiving her MBE. Moira's unwavering commitment to public service has been instrumental in the work of our department for 44 years, and this honour reflects her exceptional contribution to the people of Scotland. 'The Honours list showcases the remarkable achievements of individuals across Scotland who have gone above and beyond in their respective fields. Their service to our communities represents the spirit of dedication and excellence that makes Scotland proud.' Secretary of State for Scotland Ian Murray MP on the terrace at Queen Elizabeth House Picture Alan Simpson Like this: Like Related
Daily Mirror
31 minutes ago
- Daily Mirror
'Easy' way to clean patios in just '10 minutes' with no jet washer needed
After weeks of wet, windy weather, your patios are likely looking a little worse for wear - but a heatwave is on the way next week so it's the perfect time to get cleaning After enduring weeks of dreary, blustery conditions, your patios may be looking rather neglected. With a sizzling heatwave on the horizon for the UK next week, it's the perfect opportunity to spruce up your patio or al fresco dining space in time for barbecues and gatherings. Yet, tackling tough stains, algae, and moss on patios can prove challenging. Bearing this in mind, devotees of cleaning sensation Mrs Hinch have divulged their straightforward and speedy technique for patio rejuvenation. Elaine Chalk reached out to the 'Mrs Hinch Cleaning Tips' community, asking: "Best Patio cleaner, please?" Her query was met with a deluge of suggestions, but one product, Monty Miracle, stood out as a crowd favourite. Georgia Ettridge enthused: "Monty Miracle is by far my favourite!" She continued: "...Then rinse it after 10 minutes." Elaine Rider offered her endorsement: "Monty Miracle cleaner is the best. Honestly, it's so easy to use and so quick. No jet-washing, just spray, leave 10 minutes and rinse away with a hosepipe." She raved further: "You will never use anything else again. I was recommended it and wow I was amazed at the result. This is my patio before and after." Elaine showcased a striking before-and-after snapshot of her patio transformation,, reports the Express. The initial image revealed a surface marred by black marks, while the subsequent one displayed a patio that appeared as good as new. The lauded Monty Miracle patio cleaner is available for purchase online or at hardware shops. Priced at £31.49 from B&Q and £29.69 from Amazon, Monty Miracle Fast Patio Cleaner is accessible for those eager to replicate Elaine's impressive results. Mrs Hinch enthusiasts have been sharing their top tips for keeping outdoor spaces pristine, with suggestions ranging from Wet and Forget to bleach, Patio Magic, pressure washers, and soda crystals. Christina McManus shared her success story: "I've just done mine with Wet and Forget yesterday and they have came up great, I left it on all night and rinsed it this morning." Ann Stanton offered a multi-step approach: "If it's in need of a clean first, neat bleach, a stiff broom, jet wash then Patio Magic or Wet and Forget to keep it clean." Ann Miles provided a cost-effective solution: "Jet wash. Before I bought one I would empty a whole bottle of good bleach mix in hot water in a large watering can and wet each slab. Just leave it to dry and hose down." Karen Sutton recommended a simple household remedy: "Soda crystals in hot water. Stiff broom and scrub and rinse off." The product Wet and Forget has previously been endorsed by Mrs Hinch's followers, who praised its ease of use. For those looking to purchase Wet and Forget, it's available at Wickes for £18 and on Amazon for £21.95.
Daily Mail
an hour ago
- Daily Mail
Shocking moment floodwater gushes down streets as parts of Britain are hit by intense thunderstorms on hottest day of the year
Floodwater gushed down residential streets on Friday night as parts of Britain were hit by an intense thunderstorm on the hottest day of the year so far. The UK recorded its warmest day of 2025 on Friday, with temperatures reaching a sizzling 29C, the Met Office said. However, the forecasting service warned thunderstorms were 'pushing into' the Channel, with an amber weather warning for severe thunderstorms in the east and south-east coming into force at 8pm on Friday. Dramatic footage taken in Dover last night shows an intense stream of water flowing down a residential road, before a moving car with its hazard lights on comes into view. The vehicle appears to be moved down the street by the extreme force of the water, which resembles a flooded river or stream. Elsewhere, around London, a video clip shows huge lightening strikes in the sky over houses, with those inside the properties shouting out in awe. Yellow and amber thunderstorm warnings are set to be in place for large parts of the country tomorrow as the unstable weather continues into the weekend. It comes as some parts of the UK were simultaneously plunged into official drought after the driest spring in over a century. Forecasters warned the coming days would bring wild swings between tropical heat and violent downpours. The Met Office warned some areas could be hit by up to two inches of rain in just a few hours, with gusty winds reaching up to 50mph, lightning strikes, hail, and the risk of flooding and travel chaos. The violent storms could unleash hail, lightning, and gusty winds, while heavy cloud cover and high humidity may keep things sweltering and uncomfortable overnight. Amid all the chaos, the Environment Agency officially declared a drought in Yorkshire this week, where some areas have seen less than 50 percent of average rainfall this spring and just three-quarters of the May average. It follows a similar move in north-west England last month, and a developing drought zone in parts of the Welsh Water network. The agency warned that the prolonged dry period has drastically reduced water supplies and could pose a serious risk to wildlife, agriculture, and public health. Hosepipe bans and water restrictions may be introduced if the situation worsens. Residents struggle to stop flooding in their homes and businesses in Devon this week A spokesperson said: 'A drought is a prolonged dry period that reduces available water supplies and can negatively impact the environment, people and wildlife.' Simon Partridge added: 'We've got a very warm, humid, spell of wet weather to come.' Under the UKHSA's alert system, the yellow alert signals a likely increase in healthcare demand, particularly from over-65s and people with heart or lung conditions.
