Question 1

What is Dog Allergy?

Accepted Answer

Dog allergy is an immune system reaction to proteins found in dog dander, saliva, and urine. It is caused by the body producing immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies against specific dog allergen proteins, triggering histamine release and allergic symptoms. The Respiratory Allergy Panel is the most important test for diagnosis as it measures specific IgE antibodies to dog dander.

Question 2

What causes dog allergy?

Accepted Answer

Dog allergy is caused by your immune system producing immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies in response to specific proteins found in dog dander, saliva, and urine. When you are exposed to these proteins, your body mistakenly identifies them as harmful invaders and releases histamine and other chemicals, triggering allergic symptoms. The protein Can f 1, found primarily in dog dander, is the most common allergen that causes reactions in people sensitive to dogs.

Question 3

What is the best test for dog allergy?

Accepted Answer

The Respiratory Allergy Panel is the most important test for dog allergy because it measures specific IgE antibodies to dog dander proteins in your blood. These panels, such as the Respiratory Allergy Panel Region IV for Florida or the Respiratory Allergy Profile Region IX for the Great Plains states, detect whether your immune system has been sensitized to dog allergens and quantify the level of your reaction. The test provides definitive confirmation of dog allergy and helps distinguish it from other respiratory conditions with similar symptoms, allowing your healthcare provider to create targeted treatment plans and avoidance strategies.

Question 4

When should I get tested for dog allergy?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience sneezing, runny nose, itchy or watery eyes, nasal congestion, or asthma symptoms when around dogs or in homes where dogs live. Testing is also important if you are considering getting a dog as a pet but have a history of allergies, or if your symptoms persist despite avoiding dogs and you want to confirm the specific allergen. Getting tested early helps you develop effective management strategies and prevents prolonged exposure that could worsen your sensitivity.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of dog allergy?

Accepted Answer

Dog allergy symptoms include sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itchy and watery eyes, nasal congestion, postnasal drip, coughing, and facial pressure or pain. Some people experience skin reactions like hives, redness, or itching when a dog licks them or when they touch a dog and then touch their face. In people with asthma, dog allergen exposure can trigger wheezing, chest tightness, difficulty breathing, and severe asthma attacks that require immediate medical attention.

Question 6

Who is at risk for dog allergy?

Accepted Answer

People with a family history of allergies, asthma, or eczema are at higher risk for developing dog allergies due to genetic predisposition. Children exposed to dogs early in life may develop allergies, though some research suggests early exposure might also provide protection in certain cases. People with existing respiratory allergies to pollen, dust mites, or other animals are more likely to develop dog allergies, and those with compromised immune systems or chronic respiratory conditions face increased risk of severe reactions.

Question 7

What happens if dog allergy is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated dog allergy can lead to chronic sinusitis, persistent nasal congestion, and recurring sinus infections due to ongoing inflammation in your airways. People with asthma who continue to be exposed to dog allergens without treatment may experience worsening asthma symptoms, more frequent attacks, and permanent lung damage over time. Continued exposure can also lead to decreased quality of life, sleep disturbances from nighttime symptoms, and the potential development of additional allergies as your immune system becomes increasingly sensitized.

Question 8

Can dog allergy be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, dog allergy can be accurately diagnosed with a blood test that measures specific IgE antibodies to dog allergen proteins. Blood tests like the Respiratory Allergy Panel provide quantitative results showing how sensitized your immune system is to dog dander, which helps confirm the diagnosis and assess severity. Blood testing is convenient because it requires only a single blood draw, can be done even if you are taking antihistamines, and does not carry the risk of allergic reactions that skin testing might trigger.

Question 9

How is dog allergy treated?

Accepted Answer

Dog allergy is treated primarily by avoiding exposure to dogs whenever possible, including staying away from homes with dogs and avoiding touching or petting dogs. Antihistamines like cetirizine, loratadine, or fexofenadine help control symptoms by blocking histamine release, while nasal corticosteroid sprays reduce inflammation in the nasal passages. For people who cannot avoid dogs or have severe allergies, immunotherapy through allergy shots or sublingual tablets can gradually desensitize the immune system to dog allergens, providing long-term relief and reducing symptom severity over time.

Question 10

How can I prevent dog allergy symptoms?

Accepted Answer

You can prevent dog allergy symptoms by keeping dogs out of your bedroom and other rooms where you spend significant time, creating dog-free zones in your home. Using HEPA air purifiers in main living areas and bedrooms helps remove dog dander particles from the air, while washing your hands and changing clothes after contact with dogs prevents allergen transfer. Bathing dogs at least twice weekly reduces the amount of dander they shed, vacuuming frequently with a HEPA filter vacuum, and washing bedding and curtains in hot water weekly minimizes allergen accumulation in your living space.

Question 11

What natural remedies help with dog allergy?

Accepted Answer

Natural remedies that help with dog allergy include using saline nasal rinses or neti pots to flush allergens from nasal passages and reduce congestion. Quercetin, a natural antihistamine found in foods like apples, onions, and berries, may help stabilize cells that release histamine and reduce allergic responses. Local honey is sometimes used to build tolerance to local allergens, though evidence is limited, while butterbur extract and stinging nettle have shown promise in reducing allergy symptoms in some studies, though you should consult your healthcare provider before starting any herbal supplements.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Dog Allergy Blood Test

What is Dog Allergy?

What causes dog allergy?

What is the best test for dog allergy?

When should I get tested for dog allergy?

References

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