Speaking of Dogs

On average about 15% of the population have allergies to pets. For those individuals who have been definitively diagnosed with having pet allergies it can be a very confusing and conflicting issue if pets are already a part of the family. Often advice is given which includes "getting rid" of the irritant (the pet!). Many people may choose to relinquish their pet without clearly understanding their options and all the facts. Others choose to live with their allergies in order to embrace a relationship with a cat or dog (in some cases, both!). Contrary to popular belief it is not the animal's hair itself that people are allergic to, but rather a specific protein that is found in the pet's dead skin flakes (dander), saliva, oils and urine. These allergens not only linger in the animal's fur but also become airborne and float around our homes, landing on eyelashes, in noses and many are inhaled. Allergy symptoms may include stuffy nose, itchy, watery eyes, sneezing and/or congestion. Cats have a tendency to produce a more severe allergic reaction than dogs do however; this is not always the case. In fact, there really are no "non-allergenic" dogs or cats. Breeds of dogs who have constantly growing hair such as the poodle and bichon frise may be less irritating to some allergic individuals and could be attributed to the fact that they tend to be bathed and groomed on a more frequent basis.

If you or a family member suffers from allergies that are not life threatening, here are some ideas that may help you breathe easier:

· First and foremost, if you are experiencing "allergic" reactions and have not been tested, don't be too quick to assume it is your pet who is causing you to react. Cigarette smoke, dust, mold, pollen and insecticides are just a few of the more common allergens in the environment that may be the culprits.

· Create an allergy free room in your home, most often suggested is the bedroom. Wash or replace all bedding, curtains and pillows. Consider using plastic or impermeable covers on the bed and pillows. Use a HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) purifier. Consider a HEPA air cleaner for other rooms also.

· Wash walls, ceilings, couch covers or "throws" and curtains that trap allergens. Vacuuming blows as many allergens through the air as it removes, so use a "microfilter" bag in your vacuum.

· Wash hands and face thoroughly after playing or interacting with pets.

· Brush pet's frequently (preferably outside), wipe pets with new "dander cloths" and have the litterbox cleaned regularly.

· Carpet is a real "allergen" magnet. If replacing wall-to-wall carpeting with hardwood or other flooring is not an option, consider having carpets steam cleaned more often.

· Use blankets or sheets as pet bedding so they can be washed regularly.

· Open windows to allow fresh outdoor air to circulate through the home. Our well-insulated houses keep the heat in, but also trap allergens inside too! Make sure the screens are in so cats can't jump out.

· Have furnace ducts cleaned regularly and filters changed on schedule.

· Anti-allergen sprays are now available to allergy sufferers. Spraying these plant-based, non-toxic products around the home can help deactivate allergens caused by pets.

· A specialized allergist can provide you with information regarding such treatments as "immunotherapy" (allergy shots), antihistamines, decongestants and nasal sprays.

· Most allergy sufferers are rarely allergic to just pets. Other substances such as smoke, mold, pollen and dust may also be irritants.

If you or someone in the home have pet allergies and are considering adopting a cat or dog, it would be wise to seek a medical opinion or recommendation before making a commitment to a pet. There are many people with allergies who obtain pets without thinking through the difficulties of living with them.

There is no cure for pet allergies however, a combination of good housekeeping, symptom control and immunotherapy will hopefully allow the allergic person to succeed in cohabiting with their beloved pet/s.