Hypoallergenic Cats and Dogs

CBS news published a story on hypoallergenic pets on their website here.

The story did report that pricey pets that claim to be easy on allergy sufferers are probably more hype than true, but than did go on to list dogs and cats that are purportedly hypoallergenic.

The claim for hypoallergenicity is based on hair/fur/dander length or quantity... mainly the shorter or smaller the amount, the less allergenic. However, there are other reasons why hypoallergenic pets are NOT hypoallergenic. These include a pet's saliva and skin which contain the same protein that trigger allergic reactions.

Also, many dog allergy sufferers also have weed, tree, and grass allergies. If your hypoallergenic dog likes to roll in the grass and weed, they are getting that all over them and bringing it into the house and to you. So even if you are not allergic to the dog, you probably are allergic to what's on the dog.

Read the CBS story here.

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Hotels Offering Hypoallergenic Rooms

Recently, a few hotel chains including Hyatt, Wyndham, and NYLO have introduced hypoallergenic rooms for those suffering from asthma, allergies, or just want a room with a clean breathing environment.

At least for Hyatt, the rooms are called "Respire" and as per their website:

"Respire by Hyatt rooms undergo an additional six-step process to reduce airborne particles and minimize the presence of potential irritants. This process includes installation of a state-of-the-art air purification system and treatment of all fabrics and surfaces in the guestroom. All Respire by Hyatt rooms are installed and maintained on an ongoing basis by PURE Solutions NA.

The Respire by Hyatt – Hypo-Allergenic Rooms purification process includes:

• Application of PURE Shield and PURE Clean to minimize presence of allergens on carpet, upholstery and other surfaces in the room.
• One-time shock treatment to minimize irritants.
• Complete disinfection of Air Handling Unit and Installation of removable tea tree oil cartridge to maintain these conditions.
• Installation of hypo-allergenic mattress & pillow encasings.
• Installation of a powerful air purifier by Healthway, listed as a Class II Medical device by the F.D.A.
• Recertification every six months."

These rooms (regardless of the hotel) are implemented by New York–based company Pure Solutions.

Read more about what exactly is done to these rooms here.

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