Sammy- I have always had only tile or similar flooring since I was allergy tested and found that I was allergic to dust,animal dander, and many other things. At the time I had a dog and loved her so that I refused to get rid of her. I have the extra air purifier machine and change the air filter religiously on the furnace/air conditioner. After my dog died I never got another. 11 years later my 14 year old step-son begged so hard for a beagle that my heart couldn't say no. She is not allowed in my room but I am still exposed to her as I just retired and am home all of the time. She seems to radiate straight to me when I enter any room she is in and wants to get in my lap. (Of course I can't ALWAYS ignore her because of those pitiful, sweet, begging eyes!!!!!) The anti-dander shampoo and conditioner worked wonderfully with my other dog, but it has been so many years that I can't remember what the brand name was. I was hoping that someone here may have experience with a good brand and could give me a heads up on it. Thanks for all of your suggestions though. Lisa- thanks for the info on Allerpet-D. I may try that first before going the shampoo-conditioner route. Betty

Sorry Acadiafun I misunderstood - I entirely missed your other post stating you were referring to your own yard specifically. I should make clear that I am speaking specifically of an urban environment with many dogs per day travelling by and deposits left on other people's property for them to clean up and/or in common areas like parks and terraces meant for everyone to use. Houses/yards very close together - literally only 8-10 ft alley- which means if someone has a noticeable bad odor emanating from their yard it really is more of a nuisance than if the houses were spread out. Certainly I know many fine dogs/owners who are conciencious, But of those who aren't - my neighbors small pine trees near the sidewalk 2 or 3 feet into her yard were killed by several years of dog pee - got progressively browner on the dog pee side until finally they removed. My raised bed in front last summer wasnt doing too well and I wasnt sure why until I saw what was going on (and got yelled at by someone for daring to ask that she move her dog). Im not sure WHAT I will do with that bed - once one starts they all do. At least 5 times a year if not more I have to spend considerable effort removing the stink from my shoes - and last summer tossed a pair of fav flip flops away because I just could not get the stench out. That is MY frame of reference. Cities/urban environments are all about users making compromises - one persons rights end where anothers begin. BTW If I need a life so do some others here who have posted myriad times on this same topic!

Yes you reminded me Nanny. I should have been more clear on dogs with history and adoptions for the inexperienced. I was targeting the local dog pound type places. Not saying that is always bad either but many of these dogs have history and that can add another layer. The extra layer is something experienced dog people can handle a little better. We once adopted a beautiful abused long coat Retriever from the Pet Mobil. She was sweet to us, her canine brothers and sisters but would out of the blue try to kill other dogs. It was weird. She also did not like men in hats. We had her for twelve wonderful years but she had to be watched. Some if not most of dog rescue organizations that specialize in specific breeds can be great and are my favorite. I went to one such place when adopting my Rottweiler. They only did Rottweilers. We had a very detailed home inspection plus I had to bring my other pets in so they could observe the interaction. Before that I had filled out a form where I described the temperament I was seeking. We got exactly what we were looking for. What a perfect fit and loving dog. Most of breed specialty rescue organizations also have dogs who like and have been around cats if one is looking for that. These type of rescue organizations take the time to make a good fit. They really know the dog. My last adoption was from a rescue group who specializes in dogs that have been sick and or were unadoptable due to behavioral issues. Their days were numbered. My little Brussels/Yorkie mix had been kept in a crate with a sibling with no socialization, filth and not much care. He was sick and would poo and pee all over anyone who held him. However, I was filled in with all the problems and knew what I was getting into. What a loving little character this dog is now. He still has some fear issues when being walked and goes insane when a car passes us but is improving all the time. I'm now down to two.

Your dough story reminded me of an experience I had years ago. I had a miniature poodle who was so attached to me that in an effort to keep me closer...he ate/swallowed one of my knee high hose...without my knowledge. At the time, I had a house full of company and I guess he was feeling neglected. Of course...he became violently ill over the next 24-36 hours and I didn't have a clue as to what was causing his problem. He hadn't eaten any food other than his regular fare and there were no hints of anything else wrongfully ingested. I sat on the kitchen floor holding him...all night long...until I could get him to his vet early the next morning. They, too, were mystified as to the cause...until...they took an x-ray. There lay the knotted up hose...blocking his intestines. By that time...my poor little pup was terrified beyond consolation. In order to keep him calm...at the request of his vet...I assisted with the surgical experience after which I held his hind legs up while the effects of the anesthesia wore off so he wouldn't choke. We both smelled just delightful at that point but I was so relieved to have him back in good health...that I didn't care. After assurances that he would be fine...we both quickly headed home to the shower. :-) I know he never forgot the experience...and...neither did I. So, I empathize completely Georgysmom.