We all know
allergies run rampant as spring approaches,
for pets as well as their owners. But there is one allergy most
dog and cat owners do not want to think of –
a dreaded
allergy to their beloved Fido or Fluffy.
According to numerous studies, approximately 15% of the
population is allergic to pets. These allergies can
range from mild to very severe reactions. It is an
immune system response to the
allergens released by a certain animal’s saliva, urine, and
dander. And depending on the severity, pet owners have to make a
decision on whether they treat their allergy symptoms or remove
the pet from their home.
Studies have shown that adults who developed an allergy to their
cat or dog not only kept their pet, but obtained a new one after
the previous one died. This shows that for many people, (1 out
of 5) the benefits of pet companionship vastly
outweighed the setbacks of pet allergies
they had to put up with.
Asthma is one condition commonly triggered by animal
allergens. Depending on the animal, the allergens are different.
Cats’ saliva, hair, and dander often cause allergies, while dogs
have more allergens in their urine. People with severe allergies
can even experience a reaction to the dander present on a pet
owner's clothing.
Other common conditions that can be caused by pet allergies
include:
-
Hay fever or allergic rhinitis, where airborne dander or
other byproducts of animals enters the respiratory passages,
causing sneezing, congestion, a runny (or conversely)
blocked nose, coughing, wheezing, and itchy and/or watery
eyes.
-
Redness, itching, or a rash on the skin after even brief
exposure, lasting for sometimes hours after contact.
However, you may not be forced to find a new home for your
beloved family member just yet. Sometimes more aggressive
cleaning and incorporating new lifestyle changes can adapt your
home into a healthy, happy coexisting environment for both of
you!
Information:
Dog Food Comparisons
Premium Healthy Dog Food
PetAlive.com - Natural Remedies
