An article in Science Daily discussed a study conducted on hypoallergenic dogs and their relationship to household allergens. Hypoallergenic dogs are breeds such as poodles, Bichon Frises, schnauzers, shih tzus, and Maltese that are supposed to "produce less dander and saliva and shed less fur." The study, performed by Henry Ford Hospital researchers, found that dust and dander samples collected from the homes of hypoallergenic breeds and non-hypoallergenic breeds of dogs "yielded no significant differences in allergen levels." The study also tested allergen levels when the different types of dogs were placed in a baby's bedroom. The article concludes by stating that "parents should not rely on dog breeds classified a hypoallergenic" and that the best way to lower allergies is to get children used to the dander at a young age to build up an immunity. I found this article to be really interesting, and it gives new insight on dog breeds and allergies. All dogs shed and all dogs are going to produce dander. I feel that this article is good for families with allergies who are looking for a pet, because now they will know that even a "hypoallergenic" dog such as a poodle can still aggravate allergies. Those families can still consider a dog, or perhaps look into another type of pet without fur, such as a bird, fish, snake, or lizard. The picture is credited with Wikipedia and is a Bichon Frise dog.
I really liked this article, because I know people do think that purchasing dogs that are "Hypoallergenic," will lessen their allergic reactions, when the truth is that they really produce the same amount of allergen levels. I found this article to be very informative to anyone who has pet allergies. They will now know that they have a whole variety of breeds to choose from, since they all produce the same amount of allergen levels.
ReplyDelete