Allergy shots, formally known as Subcutaneous Immunotherapy (SCIT), are an effective long-term treatment for individuals suffering from dog dander allergies. Unlike temporary solutions that only mask symptoms, immunotherapy addresses the underlying cause of the allergic reaction. The goal is to reprogram the immune system to stop overreacting to proteins found in dog dander, saliva, and urine. This process of desensitization offers sustained relief, allowing people to live more comfortably around their pets and in environments where dander is present.
How Allergy Shots Change the Immune Response
The mechanism of dog dander allergy begins with an immune overreaction, where the body mistakenly identifies harmless proteins like Can f 1, found in dog saliva and dander, as a threat. This triggers the production of Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies, which bind to mast cells and basophils. Upon subsequent exposure, these cells release inflammatory chemicals, such as histamine, causing symptoms like sneezing, itching, and congestion.
Allergy shots introduce minute, controlled amounts of purified dog allergen extract into the body, gradually increasing the concentration over time. This consistent exposure works to “retrain” the immune system away from the IgE-mediated response.
The shots stimulate a shift in the immune system’s focus, promoting the development of regulatory T cells. These cells help suppress the allergic response pathway, reducing the activity of T-helper 2 (Th2) cells responsible for IgE production. Immunotherapy also encourages the production of “blocking antibodies,” specifically Immunoglobulin G (IgG), and notably IgG4. These IgG antibodies intercept incoming dog allergens before they can bind to the IgE attached to mast cells, preventing the release of inflammatory mediators. This leads to a significant decrease in symptoms.
The Schedule of Immunotherapy Treatment
The process of receiving allergy shots is divided into two periods: the build-up phase and the maintenance phase. The initial build-up phase, also called the induction phase, requires frequent office visits. During this time, the dose of the allergen extract is steadily increased with each injection, starting from a very low concentration.
This phase typically lasts between three and six months, with injections administered once or twice a week. The purpose of this frequent dosing is to accelerate the immunological changes necessary to achieve tolerance. Patients are monitored for about 30 minutes after each shot to ensure safety and watch for adverse reactions.
Once the highest safe and effective dose is reached, the patient transitions into the maintenance phase. Injections become less frequent, usually spaced out to a constant dose every month. This regimen continues for a long duration to solidify desensitization, with the typical overall treatment lasting between three and five years.
Measuring Success and Long-Term Relief
The success of immunotherapy for dog allergies is measured by a substantial reduction in symptoms and a decreased reliance on daily allergy medications, not by a complete elimination of the allergy. For those who complete the full course, the efficacy rate is high, with many patients reporting significant improvement in their quality of life. Most patients begin to notice positive changes within six to twelve months of starting the maintenance phase.
A common misconception is that relief is immediate, but because the shots fundamentally re-engineer the immune response, clinical benefits take time to become fully apparent. The reduction in symptoms often continues even after the three-to-five-year treatment course has concluded, providing long-lasting relief for many individuals. This sustained effect is a main advantage over temporary symptom-relieving drugs.
Even while undergoing treatment, continued efforts to minimize exposure to dog allergens are important for managing symptoms. Reducing dander in the home complements the injections by decreasing the overall burden on the immune system. For those who respond positively, the long-term result is a significant increase in tolerance, allowing them to interact with dogs without debilitating allergic reactions.