Allergies to pets can be a significant problem for dog lovers. About 10%-20% of the population worldwide is allergic to dogs and cats.
What causes allergy?
🐾 Although many people think that they are allergic to dog hair, allergies are not triggered by Fido’s hair. The primary source of dog allergens is thought to be dander coming off the skin or to be more specific is a special type of protein to which we can develop an allergic reaction.
What does science say about hypoallergenic dogs?
🐾 Although the term “hypoallergenic dog breeds” have been used to market dogs that are thought to be less allergenic than other breeds, science has not been able to show a difference between breeds. For instance, a group of scientists measured the amount of a specific allergen in the hair and coat of “hypoallergenic” dogs such as Labradoodles, Poodles, Spanish Water Dogs, and Airedale Terriers, and found that the amount of allergen was similar to the levels found in the hair and coat of non-hypoallergic breeds like Labrador Retrievers.
How can you minimize pet allergies? What are the doctors’ recommendations?
It would be best if you discussed with your physician your allergy symptoms. It would help if you also asked whether you would benefit from an allergy test to determine what exactly is causing the allergies. If you are allergic to dogs, you should ask about allergy vaccines and discuss with your doctor if they would be helpful or not. It is likely that the physician will recommend avoiding the pet, but nowadays, it is understood that this is often impossible and associated with a significant emotional impact. Therefore, it is crucial that you communicate with your doctor how important is your pet in your life.
If you are committed to Fido and assuming you do not have a life-threatening allergic reaction to pets, below I share tips to decrease your allergic symptoms related to pet allergies. These recommendations were adapted and extracted from a recent consensus published by allergy doctors.
🐾 Bathe your dog at least twice per week. This will reduce allergens and can eliminate allergic reactions.
🐾 Brush your dog regularly. This will minimize shedding. I use the Zoom Groom Brush with the Miracle Coat Dog Conditioner twice a week, and the Furminator at least once a week to remove our dogs’ loose hair and undercoat.
🐾 Keep your dog out of the bedroom. This area should be hair free, clean and clear of pet dander. It would be best if you used a HEPA air cleaner in the bedroom. Also, use impermeable covers for the mattress and pillows.
🐾 Vacuum the house regularly with a high-efficiency vacuum cleaner in the home.
🐾 Avoid carpeted floors, cloth curtains and blinds if possible. They retain allergens and dust. If you have a carpet, then vacuuming and cleaning frequently is a must.
🐾 Use air purifiers with HEPA filters throughout the rest of the home. This can be an effective measure for decreasing exposure to the allergen.
Many people enjoy sharing their lives with their pets, even those who are allergic to dogs and cats. If your allergies are not life-threatening, there are solutions that can be explored that would allow you to keep your beloved pooch while managing your allergies. Discuss these options with your doctor.
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