Tag: pet allergy

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Allergies – Know the Enemy – Pet Allergy

Not too long ago I read an article where it said that a large majority of people who have a pet allergy also own a pet. I know it is a fact because our daughter owns two cats and pet allergy and dust mite allergy.

Dogs, Cats, And Other Furry Animals = Pet Allergy

Many animals such as horses, goats, and rabbits can be allergy-causing.  But because they live so closely with us, household pets are the most common source of allergic reactions to animals.

Many people think that their pet allergy is provoked by the fur of cats and dogs. But researchers have found that the major allergens are proteins secreted by oil glands in the animals’ skin and shed in dander as well as proteins in their saliva and urine, which sticks to the fur when the animal licks itself or empties its bladder.pet allergy is a problem for some pet owners

People have always said that when it comes to allergies, cats are worse than dogs.  We now know that it is because cats lick themselves more than dogs, thereby spreading allergen-laden saliva all over their bodies. In addition, cats may be held more and spend more time in the house, close to humans.

Urine is also a source of allergy-causing proteins. When the substance carrying the proteins dries, the proteins can then float into the air. Some rodents, such as guinea pigs and gerbils, have become increasingly popular as household pets. They, too, can cause allergic reactions in some people, as can mice and rats.

Urine is the major source of allergens from these animals. Allergies to animals can take two years or more to develop and may not subside until six months or more after ending contact with the animal.

Carpet and furniture are a reservoir for pet allergens, and the allergens can remain in them for four to six weeks. In addition, these allergens can stay in the household air for months after the animal has been removed.

Therefore, it is wise for people with a pet allergy to check with the landlord or previous owner to find out if furry pets have lived previously on the premises before they make a decision to rent or buy a new home.

Think there is such a thing as “Allergy Free Dogs”.  Not really but there are some breeds that are better

Up Next – Public Enemy #4 – Mold

Till next time

Cheryl
Allergy Store – Helping customers since 1989
800 771-2246

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Pets to Prevent Pet Allergy?

It might seem totally against conventional wisdom, but there is research to indicate that if you want to protect your children against allergy, the best thing to do is get them a pet in the first year of life. Read the full study here.  Yes, you can prevent pet allergy by getting your newborn a pet.

That’s right, get a pet in the first year of life to prevent pet allergy!

The Journal of Clinical Allergy and Immunology reports a study that showed that the risk for developing allergies decreased when a dog was in the home during the first year of life. The study took place in Wisconsin and covered a representative demographic of the community.  The allergies studied were not just environmental allergy but food allergy as well.  Odd as it may seem, Ubu prevents food allergy in addition to pet allergy.  Sit Ubu Sit!  Good Dog!

However, the window of opportunity was small.  The dog had to present from birth and the first year of life.

So, don’t let fear of allergies keep you from having a pet and a newborn.  Of course, use common sense.  Don’t leave the baby unattended with a pet and you certainly don’t want the pet licking all over the baby.  That’s just ewwww. Also, supervise baby when it interacts with the pet. No one likes having their tail or fur pulled.

If you are past that one year window and still want a dog, we suggest washing the dog at least monthly in the Pet Plus Shampoo.

If you get a cat, rub it weekly with the Allerpet/C solution to gently denature the allergens and remove any loose fur.  If you didn’t catch my blogpost with the pictures of the cat after the Allerpet, see it here.  That Allerpet was one shiny cat.

Til Next Time!