AAAAI: 'Allergy-free' Dog An Unlikely Find For First Family

Main Category: Allergy
Also Included In: Veterinary
Article Date: 13 Nov 2008 - 8:00 PST

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As President-Elect Barack Obama and the future First Family begin their search for a new pet to join them at the White House, the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI) wishes to remind individuals with allergies that there is no truly "hypoallergenic" dog.

Obama's 10-year-old daughter, Malia, suffers from allergies to dogs - a condition she shares with millions of Americans.

According to the AAAAI, it is a common misconception that people are allergic to a dog's hair, and it is falsely believed that a dog that sheds less will not cause a reaction. However, allergies to pets are caused by protein found in the animal's dander (dead skin cells), saliva or urine.

These proteins are carried on microscopic particles through the air. When inhaled, they trigger reactions in allergic people. As all dogs posses these proteins, there is no allergy-free dog.

Though some dog breeds are considered more allergy friendly, it is likely because they are groomed more frequently - a process that removes much of the dander.

While the most effective treatment for animal allergies is avoidance, this is not always possible. The AAAAI offers these other tips for minimizing allergy symptoms:

- Visit an allergist/immunologist to diagnose the allergy and discuss treatment, which may include maintenance medications or immunotherapy (allergy shots).
- Keep the pet out of the allergic person's bedroom. Animal dander will collect on pillows, leading to worsened symptoms at night and morning.
- Bathe the animal weekly to reduce the amount of dander shed at home.
- Replace carpeting with hardwood or other solid-surface flooring for easy clean-up.
- Vacuuming may not be effective in decreasing allergen levels, but using a HEPA filter and double bags may help.
- Wash bedding and clothing in hot water. While animal allergens are not easily removed by high temperatures, these measures may help.

An allergist/immunologist is the best-qualified medical professional to diagnose and treat animal allergies. Additional information on animal allergies is available at http://www.aaaai.org.

The AAAAI represents allergists, asthma specialists, clinical immunologists, allied health professionals and others with a special interest in the research and treatment of allergic disease. Established in 1943, the AAAAI is the largest medical association dedicated to the allergy/immunology specialty, with nearly 6,500 members in the United States, Canada and 60 other countries.

AAAAI