Dog Allergies

What Causes Dog Allergies?

If you're a dog lover but you break out in hives every time you get near one, then you definitely have a problem.

No, you're not actually allergic to dogs, rather to the proteins contained in some of a dog's by-products. And to further complicate matters, you don't have to be born with these allergies. You can develop them over time, so none of us are ever completely out of the woods.

There are several types of pet allergens:

• Dander is simply dead skin cells that are shed periodically, more often on some breeds than others. These dead cells are usually too small to be seen, but they easily become airborne whenever a dog scratches or if dust is stirred up in a room.
• Saliva is another irritant that can cause dog allergies. Dogs naturally lick to clean themselves, but dogs who suffer from their own allergies may lick more than usual. As the saliva dries, it flakes off a dog's coat and can become airborne, finding it's way into human airways and causing a reaction in anyone who is sensitive to the proteins.
• Urine also contains these same proteins, and since urine crystals never completely break down, they are also able to cause allergic reactions.

Allergy Symptoms

There is no rigid set of symptoms suffered by all who have dog allergies. Each person's reaction to the irritants varies. Some only having mild symptoms similar to the common cold, while others have severe attacks that can actually become life threatening.

Symptoms can include one or more of the following:

• Runny nose
• Sneezing
• Nasal congestion
• Coughing
• Constriction of the airways
• Watery eyes
• Itching
• Hives
• Rashes

Asthma sufferers are at particular risk for dog allergies, and even the smallest amount of pet dander can trigger an attack.

Ways to Deal with the Problem

The surest way to deal with dog allergies is to avoid contact with dogs and the places where they live. However, if you truly love these creatures and don't think you can bear being separated from them, there are a few alternatives.

First, anyone who suspects they are allergic to dogs should be examined by their physician to have the condition confirmed. Sometimes what appears to be a reaction to pets is actually caused by dust mite or mold allergies, so it's worth checking out before you take any other actions.

The severity of the allergy also needs to be determined. If it's very severe, then none of the following suggestions will be any help and may actually give allergy sufferers a false sense of security when risking contact. However, if the allergic reaction is mild to moderate, the following measures, combined with the appropriate allergy medication, may lessen the symptoms to a level you can live with.

• Vacuum on a daily basis, paying special attention to your pet's favorite spots, including the furniture.
• Consider removing carpeting and switching to hardwood floors or linoleum.
• Use a vacuum grooming attachment to remove loose hair and dander from your pet's coat.
• Bathe your dog weekly to reduce the amount of allergens produced.
• Run a high efficiency air filter or purifier to reduce airborne allergens.
• Keep sleeping quarters separate.
• Wash your dog's bedding on a regular basis.
• Change clothing after cuddling with your pet. Dander can collect on shirts and pants, continuing to cause irritation long after playtime is over.

Conclusion

Dog allergies can be heartbreaking when you have your heart set on owning one of these wonderful creatures, but with a bit of luck, some pro-active measures, and the okay from your physician, sometimes you can create a situation that is livable for both you and your pet.

External Links

• Allerpet.com, makers of a shampoo formulated especially for allergy sufferers.