Allergic to
Dogs?
Steps Can Be Taken to Reduce Dog Allergens
Many people will ignore both chronic allergy symptoms and specific
medical advice in order to keep the family dog.
Who Is Susceptible?
Allergies to dogs can strike anyone at any age. Most people that suffer
from dog allergies often have other mild or moderate allergies to
pollens or molds. There is a strong genetic correlation in developing
allergies, so if your parents have allergies then you are likely to
have them also.
Is Any Dog Safe?
No dog is considered non-allergenic because all dogs produce dander,
saliva, and urine which are the offending allergens. Any dog who sheds
skin, urinates, or licks has the potential to become a problem for
an allergic individual.
There are dogs that produce less dander,
however. For instance, dogs that shed their skin about every 21 days
include poodles, airedales, and schnauzers.
Symptoms
Dog allergens can produce nasal congestion, runny nose, itchy nose,
sneezing, itchy and watery eyes, coughing, a scratchy sore throat,
itchy skin rashes or hives, headaches, fatigue, difficulties in breathing,
and asthma.
Helpful Tips
Be sure to always wash your hands after each time you touch or play
with a dog. You may even want to shower and change your clothing.
Dog allergens are small and sticky and can stay airborne for a long
time. They can adhere to walls, clothing, carpet, furniture, and heating
and cooling ducts. For this reason, it is best to keep dogs away from
the bedroom or any other rooms you spend a lot of time.
Avoid using heavy carpets, large draperies,
and upholstered pieces that become collecting grounds for pet allergen.
If you have carpet, steam clean it several times a year. Wash walls
and baseboards also.
The use of HEPA room air cleaners and replacing central heating/cooling
system air filters frequently can help reduce the allergen in the
air. Dr. Adelglass recommends placing a screen made of cheesecloth
or other thin material over bedroom vents to keep dander from circulating
into the bedroom from the central heating/cooling system.
Research has shown that if a dog is washed and brushed frequently
(not more than twice weekly), the airborne allergens are cut drastically.
This task should be done outside of the home. Be sure the shampoo
you use does not dry out the dog's skin which may worsen the problem.
Remember to also wash the dog's bedding and toys. Feed
your dog a well-balanced diet which includes some natural fat that
helps reduce skin dryness and flaking.
Over the counter medications, prescription medications, air purification,
dander wipes, and allergy shots are
all ways to treat dog allergy.
972-394-4405 (fax)
