Allergic To Dogs
Pet Allergy Demystified
Truth is some of us are allergic to dogs, allergic to cats, pets in general. In fact in some studies, it is believed that 30% of us are allergic (we are part of that statistic). This can be the most disheartening part of the journey to having a pet. Then pops up the label of hypoallergenic dogs. But are they truly hypoallergenic? Yes and No! We’ll be taking a look at this in greater detail.
All dog breeds can cause some form of allergy, whether it’s their dander, excretions, fur, saliva, smell and sweat. Humans can be allergic to one, a few, many or all of them. Our allergies are really an allergic reaction to proteins found in the animal’s skin cells, saliva or urine. And you will know if you’re allergic, because there are signs of this, as common as hay fever, sneezing, runny nose, asthma, wheezing and difficulty breathing.
The most common pet allergy is triggered by the exposure to the dead flakes of skin (dander) that a pet normally sheds. Any animal with fur can be a source of pet allergy, but these pet allergies are most commonly associated with cats and dogs.
So what is a hypoallergenic dog if no dog breed is 100% hypoallergenic or allergen-free? Hypoallergenic dogs simply refer to dog breeds that are less likely to stimulate allergies in people. It’s not a guarantee that you won’t be allergic to them, it’s just less likely. What’s common amongst the hypoallergenic is they are likely dogs that don’t shed their coat as a norm or that they have short, single-layered coats without an undercoat to shed, meaning they produce less dander. Why is dander such a problem? Because it is very small and can remain airborne for long periods of time with the slightest bit of air circulation. It also collects easily in upholstered furniture and sticks to your clothes.
You might be wondering what about those doodles? As in Goldendoodles, Labradoodles, and the likes that are a cross bred designer breed of dogs - are they hypoallergenic? Well, the truth is when breeds are crossed, your mixed breed dog could actually go either way. So it really depends and again there are no guarantees in the natural world.
And that’s it. So a hypoallergenic dog doesn’t have any traits to prevent you from having an allergic reaction to their excretion, saliva, smell or sweat! Pet saliva can stick to carpets, bedding, furniture and clothing. Dried saliva can become airborne.
If you don't have a pet but are considering adopting or buying one, make sure you don't have pet allergies before making the commitment. If you have a bad pet allergy reaction, perhaps the best thing is to avoid or reduce exposure to them as much as possible. Much like COVID-19, make sure you keep yourself clean, wear a mask, wash/sanitize your hands frequently and don’t let the allergens touch your face or get in your nasal passage. It’s hard to prevent!
Common pet allergy symptoms can include:
These allergies occur when your immune system reacts to a foreign substance and your immune system responses by producing proteins known as antibodies. When you have allergies, your immune system makes antibodies that identify your particular allergen as something harmful, even though it may not be. When you inhale the allergen or come into contact with it, your immune system responds and produces an inflammatory response in your nasal passages or lungs. Prolonged or regular exposure to the allergen can cause the ongoing (chronic) airway inflammation associated with asthma.
Being exposed to pets at an early age may help you avoid pet allergies. Some studies have found that children who live with a dog in the first year of life may have better resistance to upper respiratory infections during childhood than kids who don't have a dog at that age. And in our case, our bodies need time to adjust to having Kuro, so the first 3 days was horrible, but our bodies get used to it and it no longer is a problem. We also tested by borrowing a friend’s dog. 3 days was the magical number, but the third night or the forth day, the allergies aren’t a problem. But test this at your own risk.
A simple antihistamine can help when you encounter these symptoms. It’s also good to have in the event you have family or friends over to your home and they have allergies. So keep some antihistamine with you at all times and don’t forget to inform visitors that you do have a pet.
Also to make sure your dog is good with strangers, train them well with Kuro Snacks!
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