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Living With Pets & PF: What Does Your Doctor Say?
Some of you may know that I live with a beautiful 3-year-old golden retriever, who has become the “apple of my eye”, and I couldn’t imagine my life without her. She gives me reason to get up in the morning, comforts me when I am sad and is a companion like none other. I know many of you can relate to how much you love your “fur-babies” as well!
Back in December 2017, I wrote a Pulmonary Fibrosis News column about how my dog is the best therapy for me in this fight against IPF. Every word of that column still rings true to this day, and I don’t know where I’d be without her. I “accidentally” got Abby 3 months before I was diagnosed (coincidence?) and let me tell you: that was the best accident of my life. Sometimes I just look over at her (like now) sleeping soundly on my pillow and smile, thinking: how did I ever get so lucky?
Speaking of sleeping on my pillow however, I did want to ask others who are currently living with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) what your doctors say about pets in the home. I’ve heard many people comment that physicians have recommended getting rid of any birds you have as pets. I’ve also heard that some doctors warn against cleaning the kitty litter, unless you’re wearing a medical-grade mask to avoid the inhalation of fumes, dust or hazardous waste.
Abby sleeps right in bed with me, and inevitably as any golden retriever would, she sheds like crazy! I am very good at washing my bedding regularly, usually once per week to ensure all the fur and/or any dirt and bacteria is washed away. With that said, sometime when I have a really bad day, I fall asleep with my arm around Abby and my head resting against her body, where I’d surely be breathing in her fur.
Has your doctor ever warned you about pet hair being a risk to your breathing as a patient with IPF/PF?
If so, did they mention anything specific about dogs?
Truth be told, I’m not sure I would even change this nighttime routine with Abby even if my doctor recommended it but he hasn’t said anything to me about her fur. She just brings me so much comfort, but I am curious to hear from others what their physician’s thoughts are about pet hair and/or having your pets sleep in bed with you.
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