Allergy & Asthma Center of Long Island

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9 Center Drive, Roslyn, NY 11576
Phone: (516) 699-7790

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Pet

Pet allergies occur as a result of a protein in the saliva or urine of the animal that sticks to their dead skin cells on the body. Animals with less fur or those who shed less are often recommended to pet allergy sufferers, as the allergen proteins do not stick to the body as much, but there is no such thing as a truly hypoallergenic pet. Pet allergies may also induce asthma.

Symptoms that are commonly associated with pet allergies from animals (most commonly dogs, cats, and horses) include the following:

  • Sinus congestion
  • Wheezing
  • Coughing
  • Itchy eyes
  • Hives
  • Excessive mucus build up in the throat
  • Stuffy nose

Some patients experience asthmatic symptoms as a result of being in contact with a pet allergen. Symptoms may arise gradually as time goes on and recurring/ongoing exposure may repeatedly trigger symptoms. 

Tests

  • Skin Prick Test: This minimally invasive and pain free test consists of your allergy specialist doctor will painlessly place a drop of a suspected pet allergen under your skin using a lancet. After 10-15 minutes, the skin is evaluated, the affected areas are measured, and anti-itch cream is applied to the tested skin. One of our best in class allergy specialists will help you develop an effective pet allergy treatment plan that works best for you.  
  • Specific IgE (immunoglobulin-E) Blood Test: This method involves the extraction of a small amount of blood from a patient that may suffer from a pet allergy. The blood sample is sent to a lab to identify and measure the level of IgE antibodies the patient has to the suspected pet allergen. This immuno-diagnostic test allows our top notch team of allergy specialist doctors to provide you with a detailed overview of any detected antibodies that suggests you may have a pet allergy.

Treatment

  • Immunotherapy: Your doctor may offer subcutaneous immunotherapy, also known as “allergy shots”  Immunotherapy aims to desensitize your immune system’s negative response to a pet allergen through gradual exposure of a period of time that allows you to fully enjoy your pet without any allergy symptoms.

The sooner you schedule an appointment, the sooner you can experience relief!

 

Allergy & Asthma Center of Long Island
9 Center Drive, Roslyn, NY 11576
(516) 699-7790