Will Having a Dog Harm My Child If He's Allergic to Dogs?

A child's allergy to dogs should be taken seriously.

Allergic Reactions May Be Severe

Children with serious dog allergies may experience life-threatening reactions.

Children with allergies to dogs often have allergic reactions when exposed to these animals. These include trouble breathing, itchy throat, sneezing and hives. Children with asthma and severe allergies may experience harmful and even life-threatening reactions. In this case, physicians recommend that the dog be removed from the child's home.

Possible Solutions Exist

Allergic children can live reaction-free with dogs.

Treating a child's allergies with medication or allergy shots often controls allergic reactions. You can also treat the dog by applying a solution directly to the animal's fur or by giving it an oral medication. Keep the dog and the house extremely clean. Train the dog not to lick people and keep it out of the allergic child's bedroom.

Bottom Line

A child's health should always come first.

Despite children's potentially harmful dog allergies, you can often manage the condition with medication and care. Consult a physician on the best course of treatment. If a child's symptoms cannot be managed, you should remove the dog from the home.

References

• Can We Help You Keep Your Pet?: Allergies to Your Pet
• Allergies in Children: Managing Kids Allergic to Dogs
• Baby Center: Toddler Allergies and Asthma
• Partnership for Animal Welfare: Allergies to Pets