Submitted by Nilla’s Tub DIY Dog Wash and Health Food Store for Dogs and Cats
According to The Humane Society, 62 percent of American households have at least one pet. Yet an estimated 31 million Americans are allergic to animals, including up to 30 percent of those who have asthma. For these people, congestion, sneezing, runny nose, and other allergic symptoms occur whenever they are exposed to common household pets.
It helps to understand how pets can trigger allergies and what steps can help protect you. Below are six common misconceptions about pet allergies. By knowing the truth about these myths, you can take action to live comfortably with the pets in your life.
Myth #1: It’s only pet hair — especially cat hair — that causes allergies to flare up.
Not true. Pet hair is a nuisance and may cause allergies, as it contains saliva or other pet proteins. Allergic reactions to pets are actually caused by proteins contained in pet dander such as microscopic skin flakes, also in saliva and urine. Overactive immune systems in those with allergies attack these otherwise harmless substances. Animals with more fur are more likely to carry other allergens such as pet dander and dust. If you have a pet, not only do you need to handle pet hair carefully, you also need to clean household dust carefully, as it may contain pet dander that can trigger allergic reactions.
Myth #2: Continuous exposure to animals will eventually desensitize you to them.
Not only is this not true, but in some cases, the opposite is true. If you have a confirmed allergy to animals, whether you are a child or adult, it usually will not get better through increasing exposure. In fact, it may get worse. However, studies have confirmed that early childhood exposure to cats, dogs, and other animals may lower the risk of developing allergic reactions later in life.
Myth #3: If you just get the right breed of dog/cat/etc., you won’t have allergy problems.
Not true. All cat and dog breeds produce dander. However, some breeds are believed to be better for allergy sufferers than other breeds. Typically, the best breeds are those that shed the least fur or are the most frequently bathed. Bathing your dog frequently — even several times a week — removes dirt, germs, urine, saliva, and odors. Keeping your dog clean will help remove triggers like dust, pollen, mold, and other allergens so people will experience fewer allergic reactions.
Myth #4: Outside the home, you shouldn’t have pet allergy problems.
Not necessarily. Because of their microscopic size and jagged shape, pet allergens easily stick to clothing and other fabrics and are carried to other locations. Animal dander — in sufficient levels to cause allergies — can be found in many public places such as the workplace, classrooms, and hospitals. Those with severe allergies may also want to avoid the homes of family and friends who have the type of pet that irritates their allergies.
Myth #5: An air purifier will help with pet allergies.
It depends on the air purifier. Only a high-performance air purifier, such as IQAir, can help. Many allergy sufferers report that an air purifier in combination with improved cleaning methods has reduced or completely eliminated their allergic reactions to pets in their homes.
For more information on how to clean pet dander or take other steps to gain control over pet allergens, visit www.iqair.com. If you’d like to bathe your dog in a fun, relaxing environment, Visit Nilla’s Tub DIY Dog Wash and Health Food Store for Dogs and Cats, located at 211 Landmark Dr. in Normal. No appointment necessary, call 309-451-9274 or visit them online at www.NillasTub.com.