|
As the Kansas City Star notes, human dander, or the dandruff-like skin flakes that humans shed every day, can be one of several nasty allergens to animals. As one veterinarian explains, "it's kind of a man bites dog thing." Pets can also be allergic to the usual suspects: pollen, dust mites, and particular kinds of food. Cocker spaniels, German shepherds, and Shar-Peis are particularly sensitive to environmental and food-based allergens. Yahoo! Pets mentions that the most common type of allergy affecting cats and dogs is the flea saliva they're exposed to during a flea bite. Contrary to popular belief, people aren't allergic to animal fur, but rather to the proteins in dander, saliva, and dried urine. People tend to be more allergic to cats because they bathe themselves with saliva and spend a lot of time indoors.
|
