A Bit of Fun History:
The breed was created as a result of crossbreeding Skye Terriers and black-and-tan Terriers, with the potential “addition” of Maltese Bolognese. The first standard was registered in 1898 in Great Britain. Initially, Yorkies were used for catching rats and as a bird flushing dog, but then they transformed into fashionable decorative dogs for companionship.”
Allergic Reactions to Dogs
Allergies to dogs sometimes exist because of their fur. When shedding, particles of wool are found in the air, and along with them, they fall into the respiratory tracts, causing various respiratory reactions in sensitive people. But most often, allergies are not caused by the pet’s fur. They are triggered by:
- Saliva and natural secretions. They contain proteins that are foreign to the human body. The immune system treats them as a source of danger, so it responds by actively secreting histamine.
- Pollen from plants and chemicals that settle on the animal’s fur. In this case, the body of an allergic person doesn’t react to the pet itself, but to third-party elements, for which the dog may be a carrier.
- Parasites living in the animal’s body. Their eggs can be on any surface and in the air, from where they enter the human body, causing negative reactions.
Unfortunately, immune reactions can occur in individuals to almost any animal, and the Yorkshire Terrier is no exception in this regard
The Yorkshire Terrier has small dimensions, meaning it releases only a small amount of proteins that can be dangerous to the human body.
However, if you have an acute intolerance, even a small number of them can trigger an allergic reaction. Also, these dogs, like others, can carry allergenic agents on their fur – pollen, mites, chemicals, etc. Contact with all of these triggers an immune response.
This means that a Yorkshire Terrier can be the cause of health problems for its owner. However, keeping one at home is less risky compared to other breeds
Reaction symptoms
If an allergy to dog fur or protein occurs, there are also:
The aforementioned features never appear all at once. In the initial stage of the disease, mild discomfort occurs. But as the progression of the disease advances, the symptoms manifest more vividly and become increasingly varied
In babies, allergy symptoms appear more quickly than in adults. This is explained by the greater sensitivity of a child’s body, as well as children’s tendency to be in closer contact with the family pet
Treatment of Allergic Manifestations
Allergic reactions to pets, including Yorkshire Terriers, can be disheartening, especially for animal lovers. However, there are various treatment options available to manage and alleviate these symptoms:
- Avoidance and Minimization: If possible, limiting exposure to the allergen source can be the most effective treatment. Keeping the pet out of bedrooms and using air purifiers can be helpful.
- Medication: Over-the-counter antihistamines and decongestants can help relieve symptoms. Prescription medications may be needed for more severe cases.
- Allergy Shots (Immunotherapy): For those with persistent allergies, allergy shots may be a suitable long-term solution. They work by gradually reducing sensitivity to allergens through regular injections.
- Proper Pet Grooming: Regularly bathing and grooming the Yorkshire Terrier can reduce the amount of allergens present on their fur. Using hypoallergenic shampoos and frequent brushing can be beneficial.
- Environmental Cleaning: Regular cleaning of the home, including vacuuming, dusting, and washing pet bedding, can minimize allergens in the environment.
- Consulting with an Allergy Specialist: A professional allergy specialist can provide tailored treatments and advice based on individual symptoms and sensitivities.
- Holistic Approaches: Some people find relief through natural remedies, such as herbal supplements and lifestyle adjustments.
Before beginning treatment, it’s necessary to ensure that the patient indeed has an allergy and not some other disease, as the symptoms are often similar to those of infectious-inflammatory and skin diseases
Allergies to Yorkies are treated similarly to other variants. The main group of medications are antihistamines (Claritin, Zyrtec, Benadryl). They block the production of histamine, eliminating pathological symptoms.
Antihistamines can be topical – in the form of ointments and creams (effective for skin manifestations), and systemic (suppressing signs of the reaction). In addition, the following are used:
Decongestants (useful when there is pronounced swelling of the skin and mucous membranes);
Nasal drops (to eliminate allergic runny nose);
Enterosorbents (necessary for cleaning the body of toxins);
Immunostimulants (help to strengthen immunity and prevent relapses);
and hormonal treatments (only used in severe cases of allergies).
Additional medications are prescribed as symptomatic therapy – for alleviating the most troubling symptoms.
Prevention Measures:
Prevention of allergies consists of avoiding contact with the irritant. But getting rid of a pet is something nobody wants to do. Sometimes it’s an option – if the allergy to a Yorkshire Terrier is not intense, you can keep the dog. You just need to adhere to certain rules
- Do not allow the dog to often enter the patient’s room.
- Preferably, the dog should not enter there at all.
- Daily cleaning of the apartment with chlorine-containing substances should be conducted.
- Proper ventilation is mandatory.
- Bedding and curtains should be changed frequently; carpets should be vacuumed; furniture should be vacuumed regularly.
- Thoroughly clean the pet’s living area and all objects that the pet enjoys.
- Brush the dog’s fur after walks, and wash its feet.
- Bathe the dog frequently. Install an air filter in the apartment.
- Prohibit the Yorkshire Terrier from lying on armchairs and sofas.
- A family member who does not suffer from allergies should wash and feed the dog.
- Limit the time of interaction between the person with allergies and the dog.
Folk Medicine
In folk medicine, there are several recipes that can help fight allergies to Yorkshire Terriers:
- Onion, Black Elderberry, Plantain: A tincture with alcohol is taken orally, diluted in a ratio of 20 drops to 200 ml of water.
- Olive Oil: Including it in the diet helps inhibit the release of histamine.
- Birch Leaves: Taken as tea.
Drug Therapy
Depending on the severity of the allergic reaction to a Yorkshire Terrier, the medication differs:
- For Initial Symptoms (itching, redness): Antihistamines are used.
- For Abundant Secretions and Nasal Congestion: Nasal sprays and drops are applied.
- For Swelling: Decongestants are utilized.
- For Detoxifying the Body: Adsorbents are used.
- To Strengthen the Immune System: Vitamin teas are recommended.”
Question and Answers
Are Yorkshire Terriers considered hypoallergenic?
Yes, Yorkshire Terriers are often considered hypoallergenic. While no dog breed is 100% hypoallergenic, the low shedding of the Yorkshire Terrier’s coat helps minimize allergic reactions for many people. However, individual sensitivities can still cause reactions.
What are common allergic reactions to Yorkshire Terriers?
Common allergic reactions include itching, redness, nasal congestion, and swelling. These may occur from exposure to the dog’s dander, saliva, or environmental allergens carried on the fur.
How can allergies to Yorkshire Terriers be treated?
Treatment can vary depending on the severity and includes the use of antihistamines, nasal sprays, decongestants, adsorbents, and vitamin teas. It’s essential to consult a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.
What precautions can be taken if a family member is allergic to a Yorkshire Terrier?
Precautions include restricting the dog’s access to certain rooms, regular cleaning and grooming, using air filters, and ensuring that a non-allergic family member takes care of the dog’s feeding and washing. These measures can help reduce exposure to allergens.
Can folk medicine be used to treat allergies to Yorkshire Terriers?
Some folk remedies, such as yarrow tea, tinctures of onion and elderberry, and olive oil, are believed to help with allergies. However, it’s vital to consult with a healthcare provider before using these treatments to ensure they are appropriate for the individual’s specific situation and to avoid potential interactions or side effects.