Dogs make wonderful companions as pets, but for people with dog allergies – they can make things difficult. Dogs can trigger allergic reactions such as runny nose, watery eyes, nasal congestion etc. The best way to manage dog allergies is to prevent the exposure to allergens. However, as complete avoidance is not possible, a proper dog allergy treatment is needed to mange the allergies.
What Causes Dog Allergies?
Dog allergies are primarily caused due the protein present in the:
- Dander or skin flakes shed by the dog
- Dog’s urine
- Saliva of the dog
- Dog allergies from fleas
- Dog allergies from scratching
- Dog allergy Dust mites
The immune system mistakenly identifies the protein present in the dog’s urine, saliva, or dander as harmful as attacks it. This results in the allergic reaction.
Symptoms of Dog allergy:
The symptoms of dog allergy are:
- Red, itchy and watery eyes
- runny nose
- nasal congestion
- Itchiness of skin and rashes
- Coughing, sneezing and breathlessness
To know if you have dog allergy, you can consult an allergist. He/she would conduct tests such as skin tests or blood tests to diagnose dog allergy.
Dog Allergy Treatment:
- Antihistamines: Antihistamines block the chemical histamine which is released by the immune system. They help in relieving runny nose, sneezing, coughing etc.
- Decongestants: Decongestants help in shrinking the nasal passages and blood vessels — and they help relieving nasal congestion, mucus secretion, and redness
- Corticosteroids: Corticosteriods reduce the inflammation and treat the symptoms of hay fever
- Nasal irrigations: In this treatment, salt water is used to rinse the nasal passsages . This will help in clearing the sinuses, reduce the congestion and sneezing
- Immunotherapy/Allergy Shots: Immunotherapy or allergy shots are long term option for dog allergy treatment. In this treatment, a small amount of allergen in injected over a period of time. Gradually the immune system develops resistance to the pet dander, urine, and saliva.
To prevent dog allergies, you can:
- Bathe your dog regularly
- Keep the dog outside
- Keep the dog out of bedroom or limit your dog’s access to the rooms.
- Keep your home clean by using HEPA-enabled vacuum cleaners and air filters
For managing dog allergies a combination of prevention and timely treatment is important. Speak to your allergist about taking up allergy tests and getting the proper dog allergy treatment. ÙAllergy shots or immunotherapy is the best option for long-term treatment of dog allergies.
