Question:
We would like to get a dog but we suspect
our kids have allergies (possibly even to dogs). Are there any methods to minimize allergic reactions
to dogs? Are there any breeds that are less likely
to evoke allergic reactions than others?
Any internet or book references
would be greatly appreciated.
Answer:
It would be a good idea to consult an allergist on this.
He can run skin tests for various allergens including dogs.
If the allergies include asthma, the advice would probably
be not to get a dog, and later have to give it up. Pet allergies can be minimized by keeping the pet outside
and washing hands after petting it. At a minimum, pet
should be kept out of bedroom where you spend 1/3 of your
life.
Links:
http://www.allerpet.com/ ALLERGY, ASTHMA & ALLERPET
(a commercial site that sells products to minimize pet allergies)
http://www.mayohealth.org/mayo/9309/htm/cataller.htm
Cat allergy (but much applies to dogs too)
http://www.akc.org/allergy.htm
AKC Offers Tips On How To Manage Pet Allergies
Excerpt:
"Are some dogs better than others for people who are allergic to them?
Yes. There are breeds that possess a single layer coat and
usually produce less dander than double-coated breeds.
They include the Poodle, Bichon Frise, Bedlington Terrier,
Miniature Schnauzer, Kerry Blue Terrier, Soft Coated
Wheaten Terrier, Maltese, Portuguese Water Dog,
Italian Greyhound, Basenji and the Chinese Crested."
If you would like a free AKC Dog Buyers Education or
Responsible Dog Ownership packet, write to the AKC,
5580 Centerview Drive, Suite 200, Raleigh, NC 27606-3390;
call (919) 233-9767; or fax (919) 233-3627; or E-Mail to
info@ akc.org. If you're interested in purebred dogs,
dog shows, or would like to know more about the AKC,
visit our website at www.akc.org. The AKC was established
in 1884 to promote the study, breeding, exhibiting
and advancement of purebred dogs. It is the largest
not-for-profit registry in the nation.
It would be a very good idea to have your doctor test your children
for allergies before you consider getting a dog. There are various measures you can take to minimize your childrens
exposure to dog allergen. For example, restrict the dog to certain
areas of the house and never allow it into the bedrooms (this creates
an 'allergy haven' for your children. Also keep the bedroom doors
closed.
