Is your pet making you sick?
By: Sandy Eastman

Most of us love our pets so dearly that we consider them part of the family. But all too often a beloved pet is discovered to be the cause of allergies so severe that a choice between the pet and one’s health has to be made.

Few people realize that allergies can often come in later in life and appear without warning. So what can be done to prevent this dilemma?

According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, allergies to cats or dogs occur in about 15% of the population. Symptoms consists of swollen, itchy and watering eyes, sneezing, rashes, and other skins irritations. More serious reactions such as severe headaches, shortness of breath and serious asthma attacks have also been documented.

Some people are allergic to dogs, some to cats, and others to both. There are also allergies documented for rabbits, birds, mice, guinea pigs and even larger animals such as horses and cows. Of course, the most common animals that reside in our homes, sleep on our sofas and snuggle down in our beds are dogs and cats.

Most people think hair is the primary issue. Hair is merely the carrier for the actual allergens: dander (dead skin that is exfoliated), saliva and urine. Pet dander can be transported on clothing by anyone who comes into contact or close proximity to a cat or dog. Therefore, it can exist in homes where a cat or dog is not even present.

According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, cat allergies are more common than dog allergies. People with cat allergies complain of having asthma attacks or chronic asthma.

How do you know if you have an allergy?
If you suspect an allergy it can be confirmed by visiting an allergist who can perform a RAST test (short for radioallergosorbent) to make sure your allergic reaction is to the pet and not another substance such as shampoo, cologne or outdoor pollen. Your doctor might suggest a nasal spray such as Veramyst or Nasonex. Even over-the-counter Claritin can be effective.

Even if you have not visited a doctor, you will often discover your allergy by being around an animal and having a fairly immediate suffering reaction.

Pick your poison carefully -- be cautious in your breed selection
If you know or suspect that you have an allergy, purchasing a pet should be a very prudent decision. If you are looking at a particular breed of dog, for example, you could visit the breeder’s home and interact with the animal, touching and holding it. If you are very brave, you can allow the dog to lick your hands, arms or neck. You will quickly discover if you are allergic.

There are certain breeds of dogs and cats that allow for less symptomatic aliments and actually can co-exist with an owner with allergies. Smaller breeds and hairless breeds are your best solution. The bichon frise, poodle, Maltese, basenji, and Chinese crested are just a few low dander dogs. It is often discussed that perhaps the smaller breeds have less dander because they are bathed and brushed regularly. As most do not shed, the occurrence of dander on furniture and in the air would be limited. Of course, there are cases where severe allergy sufferers can still be negatively affected by dogs thought to be hypoallergenic.

If you have at least $6,000 to dole out, an allergic cat lover can buy a hypoallergenic cat from Lifestyle Pets, a high end company that produces "designer" pets. These hypoallergenic cats start at $6,000 though. Some of these cats can fetch up to $31,000.

If this sounds steep try the Siberian cat from Russia. Although still pricey at $1,000-$1,600, these semi-longhair cats tend to evoke less of an allergic reaction. One theory is that this cat has lower Fel d 1 levels, the protein found in cat saliva and the primary allergen present in cats. Some Siberian breeders will even send you a fur sample before you purchase the cat.

The well-known sphynx is also a possible choice. This hairless cat may be startling in appearance but they have proven great for cat lovers who suffer from allergies. These cats are not actually hairless but have a fine down that makes them feel like a peach. Expect to pay up to $1,200 for this peach.

Keep your beloved pet and live with your allergy
If allergies still ail you and you can’t imagine a life without your four-legged friends here are some ways to make your home and life more allergy-free.

Do not allow the pet to sleep in your bedroom or on your bed.

Keep the animal in one section of the home.

Always wash your hands after petting or playing with the animal.

Do not allow the pet on the furniture. Make him his own special bed.

Bathe and brush your pet regularly.

Keep the pet out of the family car. When trips to the vet or groomer are required, put your pet in a kennel or cover your car seats.

Install a high-efficiency air cleaner with a HEPA filter designed to capture at least 99.97 percent of particles as small as 0.3 microns in diameter. These are available in various prices and styles.

Clean and vacuum on a regular basis. There are HEPA Vacuum Cleaners that prevent dust and particles from filtering back into the air.

Change furnace filters often and purchase ones that are electrostatic, thus preventing dust, dander and fur from circulating through the house.

Consider removing carpet as animal allergens stick to these surfaces. Hardwood or vinyl floors are much easier to clean.