Cause of Dog Allergy
Although dog hair attracts and spreads allergens, hair is not the culprit of dog allergies. Proteins in dog saliva and skin dander are what cause the miserable itching, swelling, and sneezing. Dog hair also carries dust and pollen. These allergens collect on walls, furniture, and clothing. Allergy to dogs is much less common than allergy to cats.
How the Allergic Reaction Works
The body’s immune system has the important job of protecting us from illness by responding to and fighting off bacteria, toxins, and other harmful substances. Upon sensing an invader, the immune system sends out immunoglobulin E, or Ige, antibodies. Sometimes in allergic people, too many of these are produced, irritating surrounding cells which release histamine that causes the allergy symptoms. In rare cases, it causes muscle spasms in the airways which can be deadly. In a small percentage of people, the immune system goes overboard and reacts to harmless proteins in pets.
Symptoms
Dog allergies may produce symptoms such as itchy, watery eyes, stuffy nose, coughing, sneezing, skin rash, swelling, and breathing problems. People with asthma may have an asthma attack.
Diagnosing Dog Allergy
If dog allergy is suspected, the doctor will make an accurate diagnosis by taking a medical history and considering the results of a skin test or radioallergosorbent (RAST) blood test.
Managing Dog Allergies
The most reasonable course of action might seem to be to avoid contact with dogs but dog allergens are everywhere. They are carried on the clothing of dog owners and spread to other homes, the workplace, and businesses. For this reason, even some dog allergic people who do not have dogs may require medication. For people who have a dog and do not wish to part with it, there may be ways to reduce allergic reactions.
- Install tile or linoleum flooring and clean it daily. No matter how much you vacuum, carpet will harbor allergens.
- Wipe down all surfaces, as well the dog, with a damp cloth daily.
- Bathe the dog as often as your veterinarian will approve.
- After brushing or playing with the dog, change clothes and wash your face, arms and hands.
- Use a plastic covering over mattresses and wash bedding often.
- Steam clean upholstered furniture and drapes regularly.
- Clean heater and air conditioner vents regularly.
- Use a HEPA air purifier in each room of the house.
Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds
All dogs produce the allergens that some people react to but a few breeds do not shed as much as others, which reduces the spread of allergens.
- Poodle
- Schnauzer
- Portugese Water Dog
- Soft Coated Wheaton Terrier
- Llasa Apso
- Bichon Frise
- Maltese
- Yorkshire Terrier
- Shih Tzu
- Irish Water Spaniel
- Kerry Blue Terrier
- Havanese
- Chihuahua
- Whippet
- Italian Greyhound
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