Many of us love our pets like (and occasionally like them more than) family. Unfortunately, pets take the blame for most allergies and about 10% of the population in the United States has some kind of allergy to animals.
Allergies to dogs and cats are among the most common pet allergies in the United States, with cats in the lead. Their frequent grooming habits release allergens in their saliva, dead skin cells, and shedding fur. This combination in the air can trigger everything from watery eyes to asthma attacks depending on the severity of your allergy. On the other hand, not all breeds of dogs produce the same allergens. There are many different types of coats, and breeds that shed less. There are even non-shedding breeds. To avoid the heart break of having to give up your beloved pet due to health reasons, it’s best to research many different breeds before committing to bringing your new furry family member home. Allergy shots are an option, but don’t fully eliminate the problem.
Other pets that are less popular than cats or dogs also pose an allergy risk. Rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, gerbils, and ferrets are just a few on the list. On the upside, these types of pets typically do not roam as freely throughout your home as a dog or cat would, so their allergens are slightly more contained. However, even when confined to a specific area, the allergen could still cause a reaction depending on your sensitivity. Food and bedding for these types of pets can also trigger allergy responses.
For some folks, even bird feathers and droppings can be problematic as they relate to allergies. Every time a bird preens and shakes out, it releases dander into the air that can produce an allergic reaction. Bird excrement may also contain bacteria that can trigger allergies, and potentially cause a buildup of mold in the cage – causing even more allergy response.
Don’t be discouraged if you are both an animal lover, and an allergy sufferer. You do not have to give up hope and resign yourself to getting a pet rock just yet. If you do suffer with pet allergies but chose to keep pets in your home, taking a few smart precautions will go a long way when cleaning out a crate, cage, litter box, etc. If you are particularly sensitive, it’s a good idea to wear a protective mask to keep from inhaling allergens while cleaning your pet’s living space or laundering their sleeping quarters. Be sure to vacuum and dust more frequently, and have an air duct cleaning every other year if you have multiple pets in the home. This will free your air duct system from any pet hair, dander, mites, expelled feathers, dead skin, etc. Occasionally, even the most well behaved cat may get curious and use your floor vents as a litter box! Dried urine and feces are very unhealthy to breathe in, regardless of if you suffer from allergies or not, and should be professionally cleaned immediately if you suspect this has happened.
Looking for an Excellent NJ Air Duct Cleaning Company?
DRX Duct Cleaning is frequently called by new homeowners to perform air duct cleaning where the prior homeowner had pets, and by realtors attempting to sell homes where the prior owner had pets. In cases like these, the duct work needs to be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized – preferably with an antimicrobial. All filters should be replaced, and the coils inside your air handle should also be cleaned and sanitized. So whether you just moved in, or you’re trying to move out, air duct cleaning is a vital component to homeownership, and resale – especially where pets are involved.
DRX Duct Cleaning has been in business for over 10 years proudly serving the greater NJ area. Our staff has combined over 75 years of experience in the air duct cleaning and HVAC industry. Additionally, not only are we NADCA members, but we guarantee an NADCA certified technician on site at every job, every time, no exceptions! For more information or to schedule an appointment with the most exclusive air duct cleaners in NJ, contact us at (908) 755-2950 today.