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While a lot of
people are allergic to pet dander, quite often this is not the main
hazard responsible for health complaints and allergies. Often when
people complain that their “house is killing them”, they have had their
pets for a years and felt good in the past. There are some studies that
show that having pets in the home when a child is young actually
reduces the chances of them developing allergies later in life.
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A lot of homes
that have dogs are extremely dusty. Pets make a contribution by bringing
in dust. The fine size of the dust particles may be more the irritant
and allergy trigger than the pet allergens. Allergies are a complex
ailment. Research suggests that there may be multiple factors involved
in the trigger of an allergy or asthma attack. Mold and tobacco smoke,
for example, have been found to work in synergy to trigger allergies
where the presence of mold or smoke alone did not. |
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Dog Allergens |
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It is estimated
that dogs are in over 40% of American homes. Dogs are the most common
pet in U.S. homes. While it may be of no consolation to those who are
allergic to dogs, research suggests that fewer people have dog allergies
than have cat allergies. This may be due to the fact that more cats are
kept indoors and dogs are washed more frequently. In one study dog
allergies occurred in 17% of the population tested. |
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Myths about Dog
Allergens |
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There is no
truth to the myth that dogs that do not shed or have short hair do not
cause allergies. There are multiple types of dog allergens and the
amount generated differs by breed. Dogs produce at least 28 different
allergens. One major allergen has been identified that most people with
dog allergies react to. Like cat allergen, dog allergen is found in the
minute scales of dead skin that dogs are constantly shedding and the
dog’s saliva and urine. It is not automatically present on their fur. It
is deposited on the dog’s fur when they lick themselves. When their fur
dries, the allergen particles flake off and become airborne. These small
allergen particles can stay suspended in the air for days to weeks. |
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Tips for Reducing Pet
Allergies |
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- Avoid carpeting in areas where pets
are allowed indoors. Hard surfaces are easier to keep clean.
- Keep pets out of the bedrooms.
- Brush your pet regularly, outside.
- Wash your pet.
- Wash your hands after petting.
- Use a HEPA room air purifier in the
bedroom.
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Copyright © 2014-2017 Healthy Living Spaces LLC.
All rights reserved.
877-992-9904 Revised:
July 05, 2017.
Information in this document is subject to
change without notice. Other products and
companies referred to herein are trademarks or
registered trademarks
of their
respective companies or trademark holders. |
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