To some, the cute and cuddly face of a puppy dog cures any sour day. To others, it’s just a reason for sneezin’.
According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, “Allergies to pets with fur or feathers are common, especially among people who have other allergies or asthma. 15 percent to 30 percent of people with allergies have allergic reactions to cats and dogs.” 6 out of 10 people come in contact with cats and dogs, and on average there are 4 pets for every 10 people, so there’s little escape from these cute and cuddly sneeze-breeders. Cat allergies are more common than dog allergies, (as if there needs to be any more reason for dogs to be better than cats).
An allergy is a hypersensitivity of the immune system, to where it reacts negatively to normally harmless substances, like pet dander. A common reaction to allergens is sneezing. The pet dander in the air sticks to the inner lining of the nose, and the body reads it as an irritant—and lets the sneeze ring true.
Video by Cody Calhoon
Written by Jeremy Hess