Frequently Asked Questions About Living with Pet Allergies

If you have your heart set on adopting a pet only to discover you have an allergy to pet dander, does that mean you have to abandon the idea of welcoming a new furry family member? Here’s what you need to know about living with pet allergies.

Bringing a new pet into your home is a huge responsibility. Not only do you have to consider the long-term care requirements of a dog or a cat that could be living with you for another 10 or even 20 years, but you also have to consider the many practicalities of having a pet in your home. This means you must be confident you and your children can co-exist with the new pet safely and comfortably.

So, what about allergies? If you are allergic to pet dander – or if your child is allergic to pet dander – does that mean no pets at all?

Not necessarily. Fish, reptiles, and amphibians do not release dander, so people with allergies can co-habit with such pets safely if they choose. Even dog or cat ownership can be managed with the right lifestyle adjustments and medical support.

If you are considering adopting a pet – or if you currently have a pet – and are concerned about allergies in your home, here are some answers to the most common concerns about living with pet allergies.

What are pet allergies?

When a person is allergic to pets – dogs, cats, and other animals that shed certain proteins – their immune system responds erratically when near the pet or when in an enclosed space where a pet has been. The immune system creates antibodies that trigger an inflammatory response, causing the following symptoms:

• Congestion
• Coughing
• Eczema
• Hives
• Inflammation of nasal passages
• Itching skin
• Postnasal drip
• Runny nose
• Sneezing
• Watery, itchy eyes

Very commonly, the allergic response is triggered by exposure to dander – dead skin cells – though the proteins are also found in saliva and urine.

While saliva and urine exposure can trigger an allergic reaction, people with pet allergies tend to be most vulnerable to pet dander. Pet dander is more difficult to thoroughly eradicate from the environment because it can easily become airborne.

What are dog allergy symptoms?

Cat and dog allergy symptoms can vary significantly depending on the degree of severity of the allergic response. Mild symptoms include sneezing, runny nose, coughing, itchy and watery eyes, and sometimes skin irritation, rash or hives.

More serious symptoms include the following:

• Difficulty breathing
• Wheezing
• Chest tightness

Individuals with asthma and a pet allergy can struggle to manage symptoms, putting them at risk of developing potentially serious asthma attacks. Moreover, continual, unaddressed pet allergy symptoms can lead to chronic inflammation that can increase the risk of sinus infections.
Anaphylaxis, which is the most severe and life-threatening type of allergic response, is extremely rare in cases of pet allergies.

Can you live with the pet you are allergic to?

While having a pet can be a source of joy and companionship, it can pose challenges for those who struggle with pet allergies. However, it is possible to minimize exposure to animal dander and manage allergic symptoms while still living with your furry friend. By following these precautions, you can effectively reduce the impact of pet allergies on your health:

Visit an Allergist/Immunologist for Medical Solutions: If all attempts at managing pet allergies through lifestyle changes are unsuccessful, it is important to consult with an allergist/immunologist. They can provide personalized medical advice, symptom management tools, and preventative solutions such as allergy shots, which can help desensitize your body to pet allergens.

Use a High Energy Particulate Arresting (HEPA) Filter: A HEPA filter can help remove pet dander and other allergens from the air you breathe. By installing one in your air conditioning system or using a portable air purifier with a HEPA filter, you can significantly improve air quality and alleviate allergy symptoms. You can check out a range of allergist-approved HEPA filters here: Allergy Partners Shop.

Give Your Pet Regular Baths: Regular baths can help reduce the amount of pet dander on your pet’s coat. Bathing your pet at least once a week can help prevent the accumulation of allergens, making it easier to manage your allergies.

Keep at Least One Pet-Free Room: Dedicate a room in your house that is free of pets. This can be a dedicated bedroom or a separate space where you can retreat when your symptoms are particularly severe. By having a pet-free zone, you can limit your exposure to pet allergens and improve your overall indoor air quality.

Vacuum Frequently: Vacuuming regularly helps remove pet dander and other allergens from carpets, rugs, and furniture. Make sure to vacuum thoroughly, including hard-to-reach areas such as corners and crevices. Consider investing in a vacuum with a HEPA filter to ensure optimal allergen removal.

Avoid Upholstered Furnishings, Fabrics, and Carpeting: Upholstered furnishings, fabrics, and carpeting can be magnets for pet dander. If possible, opt for hard surfaces such as hardwood or laminate floors, as they are less likely to trap allergens. If you must have upholstered furniture or carpeting, consider steam cleaning or professional cleaning regularly.

Keep Pets Off of Beds and Bedding: It is generally recommended to keep pets off of beds and bedding. By doing so, you can minimize exposure to pet allergens while you sleep. Consider using allergen-proof covers or mattress protectors to reduce the amount of dander that accumulates on your bedding.

Do allergies get worse with age?

As we age, the immune system weakens. For people with existing allergies, this can cause allergy symptoms to worsen, and can even cause allergic responses in people with no previous history of allergies.

How can I build immunity to dog allergies?

The most effective strategy for developing resistance to pet allergens is through immunotherapy, or allergy shots.

Allergy shots allow you to develop a tolerance to pet dander allergens by introducing tiny doses of the allergen regularly over a period of time. This continual, controlled exposure essentially trains the immune system to recognize the allergen as non-threatening.

People with relatively minor pet allergies might be able to manage their symptoms with over-the-counter or prescription antihistamines, or prescription corticosteroids.

Allergy Partners: Offering Relief from Pet Allergy Symptoms

Allergy Partners offers allergy testing to help confirm the diagnosis of pet allergies. We can identify the specific allergens causing symptoms and provide immunotherapy for long-term relief. Our comprehensive approach and personalized treatment plans help patients enjoy their pets while minimizing the discomfort caused by allergies.