New pet, new allergies?

Exceptions do exist. If someone has a serious medical issue or a compromised immune system, owning a pet may put them at risk. Also, anyone with a friend or family member who has pet allergies knows that those allergies are anything but a healthy reaction to Fido or Fluffy. (According to the Allergy and Asthma Foundation of America, people with allergic reactions to cats and/or dogs number as many as three in 10 people.) Unfortunately, no truly hypoallergenic breed of dog or cat exists. Animal skin dander and proteins in the saliva trigger the allergic reaction, and while some pets may have reduced dander or lick themselves and their owners a little less frequently, buying a “100% allergy free” dog or cat is not possible. 

Pet Allergy Symptoms

It's the big day. You’ve brought home a new dog or cat and something has changed. You’re noticing more sneezing or maybe your skin is itchy. You might even notice a nagging cough, a stuffy nose or skin rashes. All of these are signs that you may be allergic to your pet.

• Itchy, red eyes
• Stuffy or runny nose
• Itchy skin
• Trouble breathing (wheezing)
• Sneezing or coughing
• A rash or hives where you’ve been licked or scratched by your pet

You think you may be allergic to your pet. Now what?

First, it’s important to know without a doubt that your pet is the cause of your allergies. That begins with a skin test by a board-certified allergist. A skin test is a series of small scratches on your back that contain a specific allergen. How your skin reacts to that allergen will reveal the severity of your allergic reaction.

If you test positive for a pet allergy, do you have to give up your pet?

Not necessarily. You and your allergist should discuss your symptoms and the results of your skin test to review any realistic options. For some people, making a few changes in the home provide enough relief.

• Hardwood and tiled floors are easier to keep clean, so remove or replace non-washable area rugs wherever possible. 
• Frequently bathe and brush your dog or cat. 
• Keep your pet off the furniture. That may be easier said than done, but try to limit where they’re allowed.
• Make your bedroom off-limits. Sleeping with your furry friend may feel comforting, but it can result in a restless night of snoring or a not-so-pleasant wakeup call to a stuffy nose and headache. 
• If you do allow your pets on the furniture or in your bedroom, consider designating a specific blanket or bedding for them.
• Wash pet bedding, blankets, etc., often and in hot water. 
• Dust and clean hard surfaces often. 

If all of this seems too much, you do have another option: immunotherapy.

Immunotherapy: Keep your furry friend and breathe a little easier. 

Allergy shots are the closest thing to a cure for your pet allergies. Basically, your immune system reacts to the allergens as if they’re dangerous even though they’re not. Immunotherapy will “turn off” your immune system’s reaction, allowing you to slowly build a resistance to those allergens, thus turning down the intensity of your reaction. Depending on the severity of your reaction, you may see results very quickly. Again, discuss all options with your board-certified allergist.

But I've had no allergic reactions to my pet, until recently....

It is possible to become allergic to your dog or cat over time, even if you’ve had pets growing up or have been around them for years. If you’re seeing reactions similar to the ones listed above, request an appointment with us today. It may be that Dog is rolling around in the grass and bringing grass pollen into your home, which is causing your reaction, but it’s best to know for sure.

Pets can certainly make life less lonely, providing much-need companionship for years. If you’re concerned about allergic reactions to a furry family member, make an appointment today. We can help you find relief. 

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