Allergy Shots (Immunotherapy) for Pet Allergies – Everything You Need To Know!

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Pet allergies are no less than a nightmare for pet owners who develop cat/dog allergies, which makes it difficult to enjoy their furry mates. All those cuddles and belly rubs bring sneezes and red eyes. While some pet owners may no longer be in the same room with their pets, it doesn’t mean they give up on their furry mates.

You don’t have to say goodbye to your pets while struggling with allergies if you maintain good hygiene and follow the appropriate treatment for pet allergies, such as medications (antihistamines) and allergy shots or Immunotherapy for pet allergies.

In this article, you will learn about allergy shots (Immunotherapy) for pet allergies. Let’s dive into this;

What Are Allergy Shots for Pet Allergies?

Allergy shots (Immunotherapy) is a long-term treatment for pet allergies.

As the name suggests, allergy shots involve injecting a small amount of particular allergens you are allergic to (that work like vaccines). These shots prepare your immune system to tolerate the same allergens and become less sensitive to them over time, resulting in fewer allergic reactions.

Suppose you are exhausted from taking your anti-allergic medications regularly and have severe pet dander allergies that impact your daily activities. In that case, these allergy shots for pet allergies are a better option for long-term relief.

How do Allergy Shots Work for Pet Allergies?

Allergy shots are a type of treatment for pet allergies that involves two phases;

The Buildup Phase:

In this phase of treatment, your body receives allergens like pet dander via injection (shots) in a small amount once or twice a week.

The amount of allergens injected into your body will increase gradually. This way, your body prepares certain antibodies to combat those culprits (allergens) and build strong immunity (think of a vaccine).

Fact: This phase lasts for up to 3-6 months!

The Maintenance Phase:

This phase begins when your immunity settles to a particular dose of allergy shots for pet allergies.

You will receive allergy shots monthly, providing long-term relief from symptoms like sneezing, red eyes, and runny nose.

Fact: This phase lasts between 3-6 years (If you don’t miss any of your allergy shots)

Are Allergy Shots Effective?

Are these allergy shots for pet allergies effective? The answer is Yes!

This treatment for pet allergies is especially effective for individuals exposed to pets regularly, like pet owners or those working in domains with animals. Their effectiveness depends on their duration and the allergen dose.

Research shows that 85% of individuals who struggle with pet allergies tolerate allergic shots and relieve their symptoms within 3-5 years. Allergy shots can prevent the development and progression of new allergies and related diseases (asthma and allergic rhinitis) by targeting the root cause and adjusting the immune reactions within your body.

However, some individuals who have received allergy shots are no longer on medications that provide short-term relief for their allergies.

Side Effects of Allergy Shots

The possible side effects after receiving allergy shots for pet allergies can be minor.

The most common side effects are redness, itching, and minor swelling after getting a shot.

Note:

Consult your healthcare provider if you experience any of the below-mentioned symptoms (30 minutes after getting an injection);

• Trouble breathing
• Dizziness
• Throat swelling

Who Should Avoid Allergy Shots for Pet Allergies?

Many people avoid allergy shots for pet allergies because they are scared of needles. But the pain of an allergy shot resolves instantly –  while the ease of no symptoms can last for a lifetime.

This kind of treatment for pet allergies is appropriate for the age group of five years and above.

On the contrary, you should avoid allergy shots in case;

• Children under five years.
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding.
• Heart disease or complications.
• Other allergies (food or latex).
• Severe asthma.

Breathe more and sneeze less with allergy shots for pet allergies!