Pet Dander Allergy - What You Need to Know about Pet Dander Allergy
Pet dander allergy is possibly the most common form of allergy to pets, although some people are also allergic to pets urine or even saliva. In fact, pet dander allergy is by far the most common cause of allergies to pets -not dog or cat hair, as we often think!
Why the Big Fuss?
Well, if you consider that in the US alone, nearly eighty percent of households have at least one pet, pet dander allergy is probably more prevalent than we even realize. Considering that it’s estimated that around ten percent of people are likely to have a pet allergy, chances are at least someone in your family circle and friends will have a this pet dander allergy, and knowing what it is, and how to prevent a reaction, is certainly helpful.
What is Dander?
Dander, the cause of pet dander allergy, is actually the dried skin and saliva that is on your pet. When dogs and cats lick themselves, they leave saliva behind, and this, when dried, and combined with dry skin flakes, is the cause of this allergy.
What About Hair?
Well, research has shown that it’s usually not the hair itself that causes an allergic reaction, although pet hair can trap pollens, dust and other allergens. In most cases, it’s pet dander allergy that you’re suffering if you get the sniffles every time kitty or pooch is in the room.
What To Do?
If the pet dander allergy is very severe, you may have no choice but to rehome the pet, however, even then, dander can remain in your home for up to six months! Another way to deal with this, if the pet’s dander allergy is less severe, is to make sure the pet stays out of the allergy sufferers room.
Pets should also stay off upholstered furniture, where dander may collect, and aggravate pet dander allergies, and they should be kept out of close physical contact with allergic sufferers.
If your pet is a cat, and you have someone who suffers from dander in the house, keep the litter box far away from him/her, preferably outside, and when you play with your pets, or groom them, do it outside, and remove your clothes to wash them before joining the sufferer anywhere.
If you yourself is allergic to dander, always use a dust mask when brushing or grooming your pet, or ask someone else to do it for you. A HEPA air filter or vacuum cleaner can also help remove the dander from the environment.
Last, but not least, whether you have a cat or a dog, make sure they are bathed regularly. Washing the dander off them will help alleviate the symptoms, and triggers, of the allergy, and make living with pets easier for those who are affected by the dander.
It can be difficult to live with a pet dander allergy, and a pet or pets, in the same house, however, it can be done, and in all but the most severe cases, you should be fine!
Your dog’s health means a lot to you, as well as your own. Keep yourself informed and learn more about dog allergies at CureDogAllergies.com, where you’ll find everything you need to know to keep your dog, your home and of course yourself free of allergies, and in tip top shape!