Pet Allergy Testing & Treatment in the Bay Area

Pet allergies are one of the most common causes of year-round allergic rhinitis and allergic asthma. If cats, dogs, or other animals trigger your symptoms, you do not necessarily have to give up your pet. The board-certified allergists at South Bay Allergy and Asthma Group can accurately diagnose your pet allergy, help you reduce allergen exposure at home, and offer allergen immunotherapy to build lasting tolerance.

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What Are Pet Allergies?

Pet allergies are caused by proteins found in an animal’s dander (shed skin cells), saliva, urine, and fur. The major cat allergen (Fel d 1) and dog allergen (Can f 1) are lightweight proteins that become airborne and can remain in home environments for months—even after a pet has been removed. Contrary to popular belief, there is no truly hypoallergenic cat or dog breed because all animals produce some level of allergenic protein.

Common Signs & Symptoms

Sneezing, runny nose, or nasal congestion after animal contact or in homes with pets
Itchy, watery, or red eyes
Wheezing, chest tightness, or shortness of breath around animals
Skin reactions such as hives or eczema flare-ups after direct contact
Symptoms that improve during vacations or extended time away from home

How We Diagnose

Diagnosis includes a detailed review of symptom patterns and animal exposure, skin prick testing using cat, dog, and other animal-specific allergen extracts, specific IgE blood testing when appropriate, and pulmonary function testing if respiratory symptoms suggest asthma or other airway involvement.

Treatment Options at South Bay Allergy

Our comprehensive pet allergy management approach includes personalized allergen avoidance strategies to reduce allergen levels in your home, medications such as antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, and allergy eye drops for symptom relief, and allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots) containing cat and/or dog allergen extracts to help desensitize your immune system. Many patients who complete immunotherapy experience substantial and long-lasting symptom improvement.

Schedule an Appointment

Living with a pet you love should not mean living with constant allergy symptoms. Contact South Bay Allergy and Asthma Group to explore your pet allergy treatment options and find lasting relief.