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Pet Allergy Quiz

More than half of U.S. households include a member of the dog or cat family. Yet, millions of people suffer from pet allergies. Take this quiz to test your knowledge about popular myths as well as coping strategies related to pet allergies.

Question 1
Which of the following breeds is considered a hypoallergenic dog?
Poodle
Beagle
Terrier
All of the above
None of the above

None of the above: While some breeds are labeled “hypoallergenic”, no dog is 100% free from the allergens that can cause pet allergy. However, some people with pet allergy do better with a dog that has short hair or sheds less.

Question 2
Pet allergies are triggered by the hair on a pet.
True
False

False: Pet allergies are caused by an allergen found on the pet’s skin (dander), saliva or urine.

Question 3
Symptoms of pet allergy are similar to hay fever symptoms.
True
False

True: Pet allergy symptoms can include sneezing, coughing, runny nose, scratchy throat or mouth, or itchy, red or watering eyes. For some people with allergic asthma, being around a pet can trigger wheezing or difficulty breathing.

Question 4
Reptiles are a common cause of pet allergy.
True
False

False: That is rare. Pet allergies are most common among dogs, cats, rodents and other animals with fur.

Question 5
If you are allergic to pets, you can have symptoms even when the pet is not in the room.
True
False

True: Pet allergens can collect on upholstered furniture, carpet, linens and clothing. For those with mild pet allergy, regular cleaning can help reduce symptoms. Other tips include replacing carpeting with hardwood floors, keeping pets out of bedrooms, and use of HEPA air purifiers and filtering products.

Question 6
Pet allergy is a form of allergic rhinitis.
True
False

True: Allergic rhinitis is the medical term for a group of allergies that typically cause symptoms in the nose, throat, eyes, ears, skin and roof of the mouth. There are two types of allergic rhinitis. Seasonal allergic rhinitis, often referred to as hay fever, is typically caused by outdoor allergens such as pollen from trees, grasses and weeds. Perennial allergic rhinitis occurs year-round. It is usually triggered by allergens such as pet dander or dust mites.

Question 7
Which of these will not necessarily help minimize symptoms if you are allergic to pets?
Try not to hug or kiss pets
Keep your pets out of bedrooms
Use a double or micro-filter bag in your vacuum cleaner
Keep your pets outdoors

Keep your pets outdoors: While keeping animals outside may make a slight improvement, pet dander will eventually find its way indoors on clothing or shoes.

Question 8
There is no proven long-term treatment for pet allergies.
True
False

False: Allergy shots therapy (immunotherapy) has a proven track record as an effective form of long term treatment. Talk to your allergist / immunologist about whether this treatment approach is right for you.

You answered   questions correctly.

 

Learn more about pet allergy symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and management.