By Krystal L. Beers, CSAN
Summary
Is there such a thing as “hypoallergenic” dog breeds? What is pet dander? How can you reduce or eliminate your exposure to pet allergens?
About 10% to 20% of the global population is allergic to dogs or cats. According to the American Lung Association, even though dogs are more common pets than cats (32% versus 27%), cat allergies are reported twice as often as dog allergies. Many of those people would love to have a companion animal so are tempted to adopt what some deem to be “hypoallergenic.”
The Havanese, among other dog breeds, is often considered to be “hypoallergenic.” The main reason being is that the Havanese has hair not fur and sheds differently. Being double-coated, the inner coat loosens and is removed with regular brushing. Due to this, some people with mild dog allergies or asthma often do not experience a reaction to Havanese. Those who are severely allergic to dogs can still exhibit allergy symptoms to Havanese.
Unfortunately, studies comparing the shedding of allergens found no real difference between so-called “hypoallergenic” dogs and “regular” breeds. Thus, the term hypoallergenic is somewhat misleading.
An allergy to dogs is really about a little thing called dander.
What is Dander?
Dander is tiny skin particles. All animals shed these whether it has feathers, hair, or fur. Dander is a problem because it contains a certain protein that brings on an allergic response in some people. These bits of skin are very lightweight and have jagged edges so they become airborne and stick to everything. And once airborne they can remain suspended for long periods.
In addition, the saliva and urine of animals also has that protein. Every time an animal grooms itself with licking (we all know they lick their nether regions after going potty!), the skin gets a double-dose of the protein. Being avid self-groomers, more people experience an allergy to cats so even hairless cat breeds can pose a problem. That goes for birds, too.
In people with pet allergies, the immune system mistakenly thinks this protein is an invader, so it forms an antibody to it. The next time it sees that protein, a cascade of reactions is set in motion with one or more of these symptoms:
· Itchy or watery eyes
· Sneezing
· Wheezing
· Stuffy or a runny nose
· Coughing
· Rash
As The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) explain, however, “Pet allergens are even in homes and other places that have never housed pets. This is because people can carry pet allergens on their clothing. Also allergens can get into the air when an animal is petted or groomed.”
Reduce Pet Allergens
Here are some preventative strategies to reduce pet dander in your home:
· Keep your pet out of your bedroom
· Choose leather furniture over upholstery
· Keep clutter to a minimum
· Eliminate carpet as much as possible choosing smooth flooring instead
· Vacuum frequently
· Cover vents with cheesecloth and have your vents professionally cleaned once a year
· Resist the urge to bathe your pet more often as this leads to dry skin and more dander
· Do groom your pet regularly! And wash your hands after petting them.
· Wash dog toys frequently to remove dried saliva
· Cat guardians- wear a mask when cleaning the litter box
The single most effective thing to reduce pet dander, believe it or not, is diet. Yes, diet! By reducing allergenic foods going into your pet, you reduce allergens in the urine. But which diet? A Species Appropriate Raw Food diet also known as raw feeding. This diet is anti-inflammatory, reduces dander and shedding, improves overall health dramatically, and then helps to maintain it.
Plus, it can make a huge difference for an allergic family member. I experienced this personally having no more signs of allergy when I switched my cat over to a raw food diet. My brother-in-law is very allergic to cats yet when visiting my home never once had symptoms despite his favorite chair being my kitty’s preferred chair! Even my “allergic” housecleaners couldn’t believe they had no issues while cleaning my home.
Other Types of Pets
As you’ve seen, the idea of “hypoallergenic” or “allergy-free” dogs and cats is mostly hype. But there are many things to try in an effort to reduce the allergens in your pet-friendly home.
If the above suggestions still don’t help you live with your pet in comfort, consider one of these types of pets instead:
· Turtles
· Fish
· Snakes (!)
Contact Krystal at Radiant Animal Wellness to learn how to raw feed your animal companions.
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