Refers to allergies a pet exhibits (food, skin, seasonal) and human allergies to animals.
An allergic reaction is an animal's body overreacting to a foreign substance that comes in contact with the body and triggers an immune response. Most often the foreign body is not harmful and the immune response is not necessary for self preservation.
Humans and many different animals can have an allergic reactions to various substances. The most common examples are:
- Food
- Pollen
- Medicine
- Insect bites or venom (including bee/wasp/hornet string)
- Other animals
The reaction can vary based on the individual ranging from minor to extreme. Reactions in the extreme range can requirement hospitalization and may result in death if not treated.
Typical reactions include (not all-inclusive)
- Rashes/Hives and Itching
- Swelling
- Runny nose
- Redness and itching of the eyes
So this tag should be used on questions pertaining to allergies regardless of whether pets are the source of the allergies or it is the pets themselves are suffering from allergies.
Source used for reference: WebMD Allergies Health Center
