Does your
pet seem to be lingering in the air?
Household pets are the most common source of
allergic reactions to animals. Many people think that pet allergy is
provoked by the fur of cats and dogs. But researchers have found that
the major allergens are proteins secreted by oil
glands
Did furry pets live in the house
previously?
 Carpet
and furniture are a reservoir for pet allergens, and the allergens can
remain in them for four to six weeks. In addition, these allergens can
stay in household air for months after the animal has been removed.
Therefore, it is wise for people with an animal allergy to check with
the landlord or previous owner to find out if furry pets had lived
previously on the premises. Allergies to animals can take two years or
more to develop and may not subside until six months or more after
ending contact with the animal.
What is
animal dander?
While animal fur has been targeted as an
allergen, the actual culprits are proteins found in the skin glands,
saliva, and urine of animals. These proteins are called dander. Animal
dander can build up in carpets and upholstery, and it becomes airborne
when disturbed by cleaning.
What is second-hand animal dander?
Recent research has shown that exposure to
animal dander can also be "second-hand." Children who live in homes with
pets can carry dander to school on their skin, clothing, and school
bags. Dander-sensitive individuals can then be exposed to it. Also,
dander can be carried back into the home after visiting a location where
animals are kept, exposing other family members.
How can I reduce animal
dander in my home?
The air in your house is recirculated continuously.
Without proper air filtration, you expose yourself to two heaping
teaspoonsful of foreign particulates each day, greatly increasing your
chances of becoming ill. Air filtration removes other allergens as well,
making it a very important step in creating a more healthful
environment. The most efficient method to control dander allergies is to
install a disposable BON-AIRE ALLERGEN Whole House Filter on your
central air supply to filter molecules to microns and provide
anti-microbial protection.
Contrary to popular belief, the fur of cats and
dogs is not the culprit. Researchers have found that the major allergens are proteins
secreted by oil glands in the animals' skin and shed in dander as well
as proteins in the saliva, which sticks to the fur when the animal licks
itself. Urine is also a source of allergy-causing proteins. When the
substance carrying the proteins dries, the proteins can then float into
the air.
 Cats may
be more likely than dogs to cause allergic reactions because they lick
themselves more and may be held moe and spend more time in the house,
close to humans.
Dogs, pet birds,
rabbits, and rodents can also produce allergy-causing dander. Some
rodents, such as guinea pigs and gerbils, have become increasingly
popular as household pets. They, too, can cause allergic reactions in
some people, as can mice and rats. Urine is the major source of
allergens from these animals. |
