Although a significant percentage of the American population own pets, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, 15 to 30 percent of people with allergies also have allergic reactions to dogs and cats, with cat allergies being twice as common as dog allergies. Contrary to popular belief, pet hair does not cause allergies. Rather pet oxygen, the constant shedding of fluids and dander from old skin cells triggers symptoms and allergic reactions.
This dander, as well as pet feces, urine, and saliva, can also act as allergens, causes runny noses and eyes, sneezing, rashes, and other undesirable side effects. Pet dander is also capable of collecting and harboring other allergens such as dust and pollen. In addition to pet hair, bird feathers and hair from small animals such as hamsters, gerbils, and rabbits, as well as their droppings, are a breeding ground for mold, fungi, and bacteria.
Specifically, cat hair is one of the most common pet allergies. This is caused by an allergic reaction to cat glycoprotein Fel d 1, which is secreted by a cat’s sebaceous glands and most commonly found in a cat’s saliva and skin. Cats are known to be extremely hygienic, as they often lick their fur in order to clean themselves. However, this leads to the saliva being deposited onto the fur, which, in turn, dries into dander and released when a cat moves, or when it is brushed or stroked by a human.
In addition to the problem of dander, pets can sometimes leave unpleasant odors in one’s home. Kennels, litter boxes, pet beds and blankets, cages, and other high-traffic pet areas, as well as secretions such as feces and urine, can lead to unsightly odors.
However, even though pet allergies and odors are so prevalent, for pet owners, giving up their best friend is not an option. Luckily, air purifiers are extremely successful at removing pet dander and odors, allowing one to breathe clear and have an odor-free free home.
Air purifiers using technologies such as activated carbon, HEPA, ionization, and UV light are ideal to remove pet allergens and odors. In fact, many purifiers utilize either many or even all of these purification methods to target pet problems. Air purifiers with activated carbon contain oxygen-infused charcoal which eliminates odors, and HEPA filters, which are able to capture particles 0. 3 microns are larger, trap pet hair and dander in the purifier’s filter media.
wherever they go, pet carriers are the perfect solution. For those pets that must travel in the cargo, a quality dog crate is the safest way to go. These days, flying with your dog or cat is easier than ever before. However, air travel with your dog or cat comes with its own set of challenges, and it’s best to be prepared to reduce stress for both you and your pet on traveling day. First of all, all airline policies are different concerning pet travel and you need reservations. Be sure to ask what kind of pet carriers they accept or try our Sherpa Delta pet carrier and the Sherpa Backpack which are airline approved. Also, it’s important to ask what documents the airline requires such as vaccination records or a health certificate. So whether you’re traveling with a pet carrier or a dog crate, preparation is key.
Even with all your preparation, fear of flying can still be an issue for your dog or cat. Our Chihuahua, Sox has anxiety every time we fly even though he sits right at our feet. At first, we thought of giving him tranquilizers, but we learned that tranquilizers shouldn’t be given to pets before boarding because they can increase the dog’s risks of accidents and can make it hard for them to adjust to temperature changes and turbulence. Worst of all, they can impede breathing. The before the flight.
Whether using a dog crate or pet carrier, it’s a good idea to get your dog used to it for about a month before your travel date. To make the flight easier on your dog, don’t feed him for 4 to 6 hours before, but small amounts of water are fine. Just in case your dog should get lost in the airport, it’s a good idea to carry a picture of him or her.
Every time you fly with your pet, you have a choice between taking them on board with you in a small dog carrier (unless they’re a large breed, of course) or putting them in the cargo. Cargo holds can be hot in the summer and cold in the winter, and the Humane Society of the united states strongly recommends that you not ship your dog in the cargo unless there is no alternative. Each year there are fatal accidents when, because of runway delays, dogs suffer heat stroke in the bottom of airplanes. In fact, most airlines refuse to check dogs between May and September.