Dog Walks Now: January 2015

Saturday, January 31, 2015

Can I Come On The Couch.. Please?! #dog #dognyc #pitbull #cuddle

Can I Come On The Couch.. Please?!

#dog #dognyc #pitbull #cuddle

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Friday, January 30, 2015

Next Week, We’ll Post Your Dog Selfies! Just DM or...

Next Week, We’ll Post Your Dog Selfies! Just DM or #DelfieWeek Your Pic. Let’s See Who Gets The Most Buzz #Contest

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Delfie - dog selfie? #dogpics

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Wednesday, January 28, 2015

Got Allergies?? Five Dog Breeds For You!

There’s nothing in the world you’d like more than to share your life with a canine companion. Unfortunately, you just might happen to be one of those humans whose allergies run away with them each time they get up close and personal with dogs! What’s the good news? Well, millions of people who are allergic to pets can still share their homes and their lives with their furry companions – it’s possible that you could, too!

First, let’s go over how allergies actually work. Pet allergies aren’t actually caused by dog hair itself, but instead, people are reacting to the allergy-triggering proteins in a dog’s saliva and skin glands that stick to an animal’s dry skin (dander) and fur. One person’s allergy symptoms might look completely different from the next, and the difference really depends on that particular person or individual dog.

Unfortunately, what this means is that the reputation of the truly ‘hypoallergenic’ dog is more myth than truth. There are individual breeds that tend to shed less hair, though, and so, in turn, distribute less reaction-causing dander around the house – although to complicate things further, research has found that the amount of shedding isn’t the only factor that determines the degree of an allergic reaction! Here are some breeds that, anecdotally, have been noted to cause fewer reactions among dog allergy sufferers.

(Mr. Woofy)

Bichon Frise

Portuguese Water Dog

Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier

Poodle

These breeds have soft, non-shedding coats that are either curly or wavy. The curls help to prevent dander from being shed onto carpets and furniture, and the regular grooming that’s needed by these pups tends to decrease the amount of dead hair, dander and saliva in the coat. These breeds are also known for their intelligence and playful, gregarious natures, making them fantastic all-around pets and companions, too!

Chinese Crested

With two unique types, this breed is another one that’s high on the list of hypoallergenic dogs. The hairless type grows hair only on the head, tail, and paws, while the Powderpuff has a soft, wavy, non-shedding coat over its entire body, reducing dander production. Chinese Cresteds are the ideal lap dog – snuggly, affectionate, and clever.

Aside from choosing a breed that does not shed, there are also some other ways that long-suffering dog lovers can help to decrease reactions to their favorite canine companions:

Weekly wash – a simple bath can really help to moderate the amount of dander that your pup sheds around the house. Ask your vet about a shampoo that won’t dry out your dog’s skin and coat.

Out of the bedroom! Keeping pets out of sleeping areas can cut down on those uncomfortable symptoms too, reducing dust, hair, and floating dander in the room.

Filter away! A HEPA filter attached to ventilation and heating systems removes extra dirt, pollen and dander from room air, cutting back on your contact with allergens

For many people, the rewards of dog ownership far outweigh the drawbacks of any lifestyle adjustments needed to deal with their allergies. With some creative solutions, hopefully you can join the large number of animal lovers who live happily with their canine companions!

By: Jennifer Coella

Dog Walks Now Contributor

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