Dogs are most adorable and are kept as pets in most of the houses. But for some people these dogs can turn out to be allergic. Dog allergy is more common with people. Dog allergy is generic, if a family member is allergic then he/she mite also suffer from dog allergy.
Usually people think that dog allergy is occurred because of its fur or hair but that’s not true. It is the saliva, urine and dander (dead skin) that causes dog allergy. If a person who has sensitive immune system comes in contact with allergens like dog’s dander or dead skin flakes, allergen from salivary glands, allergen from dog’s urine, then they are more likely to be effected by dog allergy. Different breeds produce different dander, so it’s possible to be more allergic to some dogs than others.
Most of the time the allergen like fur and dander will be collected on carpets, in between cushions, wall, and clothing and from there sooner or later it can find its way into your lungs and eyes. A person need not necessarily own a dog in order to be exposed to its allergy, allergen from dogs dander are air borne, it can even travel on peoples clothes and cause allergy.
Dog Allergy Symptoms
- Coughing and wheezing.
- Sneezing and running nose.
- Rash on chest and face
- Chest tightness
- Watery, red and itchy eyes.
- Breathing problem.
- Redness of skin where the dog have bitten or licked
Dog allergy symptoms range from mild to severe, depending on an individual’s sensitivity and the level of exposure to allergen. The most common dog allergy symptoms are swelling and itching of the areas around the eyes and nose, usually leading to eye inflammation and a stuffy nose. The skin around a dog scratch may become red. Some people may develop a rash on their face, neck, or upper chest as these areas are usually open and comes in contact with cats while playing with them.
In case of a severely allergic person, if allergen from dog’s dander gets into their lungs it can cause coughing, wheezing, breathing problem. Dog allergy can also lead to chronic asthma.
How to Avoid Dog Allergy?
Removing dogs from home is the best way to avoid dog allergy, however if there are more members in a family who love dogs then this can’t be applied. There are few possible ways with which you can avoid being effected by dogs
- Maintain cleanliness: the best way to avoid dog allergy is to keep home and environment clean. Clean your pet’s bedding regularly and vacuum at least twice weekly-this includes rugs, curtains, wood work and any other materials that gather dust.
- Restrict dog’s entry: don’t allow your dog to enter your bed room. Restrict dogs to outdoor or to limited area in the house.
- Regular dog bath: Weekly bathing may help relieve itching and remove environmental allergens and pollens from your dog’s skin. You can consult with your vet as to which shampoos are best. Using wrong shampoo may dry out dog’s skin, which in turn leaves dander.
- Use allergy control sprays: Allergy Control Solutions are available that alter animal allergens to make them less reactive. They can be sprayed on carpets and soft furnishings, and can be added to water when washing fabrics