Allergens
9 Common Misconceptions About Pet Allergies
Take the Quiz!
1.) Do you know that pet hair isn't actually what's making you allergic?
Answers:
A.) No, I didn't know that!
B.) Yes, I always knew that!
C.) I don't care. I still love my pet!
If you chose B, you're on you're way to understanding pet allergies!
Most people assume that pet hair is the allergen regarding people's sensitivities around animals – but this isn't true! Pet dander, or tiny protein bits of skin, saliva, and urine released by animals into the air, is the culprit. Believe it or not, this microscopic mix of proteins can cause watery eyes, sneezing fits, and wheezing in those with pet allergies. It's the dander and not the hair:)
2.) Do you know that you can't see pet allergens?
Answers:
A.) Yes, I was aware of that.
B.) No, I didn't know that.
A is the appropriate choice here.
Pet dander is much smaller than human hair, with particles measuring between one and five microns, while human hair measures on the bigger side at 60 to 100 microns. The small size of pet dander might make you wonder if the naked eye can even see it - and the answer is no - not without the help of an electron microscope! Comparing pet dander to human hair is like comparing a tiny pebble to a boulder.
3.) If you could take a break from your pet allergies by removing your pet for a little while, would you do it?
Answers:
A.) Yes, I would definitely remove my pet temporarily
B.) No, I wouldn't remove my pet because I love them too much
C.) I'm not sure if I would or not
If you chose B, that's good. Here's why:
If you suffer from pet allergies and believe brushing off your furry friend will eliminate your sneezing and watery eyes, think again! Removing your pet (even if it's just temporary) may provide some relief. Still, it won't clear the root issue or cure your allergies. No matter how far away you send poor kitty or pup, you're still gonna be left dealing with all kinds of symptoms when they come home. Best to try tackling those sneezes and wheezes with a multi-step approach! (See number 4 below for helpful ways to reduce the allergen load in your home).
4.) Do you think taking allergy medication is the only way to relieve pet allergies?
Answers:
A.) Yes, there's no other way!
B.) No, I've tried other things, and they work just as well.
C.) I'm not sure; I've never really tried anything else.
Choose B and go to the head of the class!
Here are some other easy ideas to help reduce your allergic reaction besides just using allergy meds. Treating pet allergies is like solving an intricate puzzle - a lot goes into finding the right solution. To start, keep your pet out of the bedroom. Then, if symptoms intensify, you've got a place to relax, your pet-free zone. Vacuum daily, and wipe down surfaces more often (if you de-clutter your home, it will be even more manageable). Change your HVAC filter at least once a month. Invest in an air purifier for the home. Use an Allergen Spray to reduce allergens in your living quarters. And spray Allergen Spray on surfaces to keep allergens from floating in the air. With these straightforward steps, you can minimize pet allergies quickly and easily, like a pro!
5.) True or False: Once allergens land on a surface, they stay put, and you won't have to endure allergy symptoms.
Answers:
A. True
B. False
B is the correct answer.
Pet allergens are some of the peskiest things around! They're tiny, come from our fur friends, and love to float around in the air (and reach your mucus membranes that start your allergic reaction). That's why controlling airborne allergens is vital to getting relief. When pets walk across the carpet, you move from one room to another, and allergens are released. Unfortunately, no matter how clean we try to keep our homes, these allergens have an extreme talent for finding their way into everything. Fortunately, there are ways to combat these airborne culprits, and one of the best ways is by spraying Allergen Spray in the air and on surfaces. It's very effective at drying up allergens and keeping them down.
6.) Do you need a laundry additive to reduce pet allergies?
Answers:
A.) Yes, it's a must!
B.) No, I don't think it's necessary
C.) I've never heard of that before
A or B could be the correct answer, and here are the reasons.
Hot water (over 135 degrees) does the trick without using a special laundry detergent. Still, it could be a good idea if you prefer to wash in cold water. Also throwing items in the dryer works great!
7.) Does vacuuming increase allergens in the air?
Answers:
A.) Yes, it stirs up all the allergens and makes them airborne
B.) No, it collects all the allergens and traps them inside the vacuum cleaner
C.) I don't know
If you chose A, you're correct!!
Fighting pet allergies can be a real challenge, but did you know that the right vacuum cleaner can help? Certain vacuum cleaners can reduce pet allergens and make breathing easier. So what kind of vacuum cleaner should you consider? First, opt for a quality HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filter and an integrated sealed system. Next, consider a vacuum with a bag since bagless ones will create a dust cloud wherever you empty them. Finally, spray Allergen Spray generously in every room to ensure those allergens will not get airborne again.
8.) Do you think your home may be harboring pet allergens even if you don't have a pet?
Answer:
A.) Yes, there's no way to avoid them!
B.) No, I'm very careful about keeping my home clean.
C.) I don't know, but I will find out!
If you chose A, you're on target to keep allergens out the door.
Believe it or not, pet allergens can sometimes linger in a home, even if there's no pet living there! That's because animal fur and feathers (which contain pet dander) can sometimes hitch a ride on our shoes and clothing, making their way into the house. Some people may consider this an unavoidable annoyance with owning a pet. Still, even visitors may cause pet allergens in the home. The moral of the story: —even if you don't own a furry animal—make sure to take your shoes off at the door- otherwise, your home may have some unexpected visitors!
As a side note, over 100% of US households contain cat dander, even if they don't own a pet!
9.) Do you know where your pet's dander is hiding?
Answers:
A.) Yes, I keep my pet well groomed, and it's only in one specific room.
B.) No, I had no idea! Dander is EVERYWHERE.
C.) It depends on the pet.
B is the obvious answer!
Pet dander can be sneaky - even if your furry companion is banned from visiting other rooms in your home, it can still find its way there. Pet dander loves to cling to clothing and bedding, hitching a ride when you stroll through the living room or head off for some shut-eye. Plus, surprise! Your air conditioning system might also play pet postal service by bombing all the rooms with pet dander via its air filtration system. But don't worry - while they may seem like tiny fugitive spies surfacing everywhere, there are ways to capture and contain pet allergens, so they don't spread! Regular vacuuming, frequent laundry, keeping carpets clean, and using Allergen Spray should help!
Common Questions
Do people grow out of animal allergies?
There is a common belief that allergies, including animal allergies, are usually outgrown as one gets older. While it is true that some individuals may experience a reduction in their symptoms or even no longer have any symptoms as they reach their teenage years or early adulthood, it is important to note that not everyone will grow out of their animal allergies.
For instance, if a child has an allergic reaction to dogs, it is crucial to respect and acknowledge their allergy by minimizing their exposure for their comfort and overall health. While some individuals may find that their symptoms improve or disappear during their teenage years or young adulthood, it is essential to understand that allergies can resurface at any point in life without any apparent cause.
It is not advisable to keep pets in the hopes that it will help someone acclimate to their allergy over time. The presence of an animal in the household will not cure or guarantee the disappearance of an allergic reaction. It is worth noting that some individuals may have a consistent pet allergy throughout their adult life, and it is usually impossible to predict who may experience a change in their symptoms and who may not.
Are pet allergies as serious as food allergies?
Pet allergies should be regarded with the same level of seriousness as food allergies. While some pet allergies may present mild symptoms such as sneezing and watering eyes, others can be quite severe, leading to difficulties in breathing and swelling that may require immediate medical attention. It is crucial not to underestimate the impact of pet allergies on individuals, particularly those who already experience immune response complications. Assuming that exposure to an animal will only result in slight discomfort for someone with a pet allergy is unsafe and misguided. It is important to recognize that, like other allergies, pet allergies should be treated seriously and not taken lightly. In cases of mild reactions, over-the-counter medications can provide some relief, but it is essential to take appropriate measures to manage and prevent pet allergies, just as one would for food allergies.
Indoor Allergen Control
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