An allergic reaction to an animal is caused by the by proteins in its dander, saliva, and urine.

Individuals who have allergies often feel they cannot have a pet because the fur or dander of the animal causes severe reactions. However, although no breed is completely free of the potential for an allergic reaction, some types of pets pose less risk of being the source of allergens.

Always remember if your child is suffering from an allergic reaction please visit the closest emergency room. At SignatureCare Emergency Center, we treat allergies in child as well as adults.

Choosing a Hypoallergenic Pet

Allergies can be very serious especially food and animals. These are some great options for those families who want a pet and suffer from allergies.  Always double check before you decide to adopt an animal wit your children doctor if they supper from allergies.

Here are some tips on choosing a pet for those who suffer from allergies but who still want the pleasure and benefits of having an animal companion in their lives. 

Hypoallergenic Pets -Dog Breeds

The Bichon Frise, Chinese Crested, Poodle, Afghan Hound, Schnauzer, Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier, Maltese, and Portuguese Water Dog are commonly known breeds that are known to be favorable for a household with allergy sufferers.

Less well-known breeds such as the Bedlington Terrier, Irish Water Spaniel, Kerry Blue Terrier, Coton de Tulear, American Hairless Terrier, and a few others are also suitable for allergic households, but these breeds may be difficult to find or may be very expensive.

Hybrid breeds, such as the Labradoodle, which combines the obedient nature of the Labrador retriever with the non-allergenic coat of the poodle, can be the answer for some allergy sufferers.

Hypoallergenic Pets- Cat Breeds

Many people have allergies to cat dander. However, some breeds have been found to produce fewer reactions.

The Siberian, the Balinese-Javanese, and the Hairless Sphinx are the most well-known. Other cat breeds that are known to be non-allergenic include the Cornish Rex and the Devon Rex.

These cat breeds can be difficult to find in some areas of the country and tend to be quite expensive.

Other Hypoallergenic Pets

Some individuals with allergies may fare better with other types of animals, such as birds, rabbits or small mammals.

However, there is no guarantee that these will not cause allergic reactions in highly sensitive people. These individuals may do better with reptiles or fish, which produce no allergens and live in a separate habitat.

Adopting A Pet When You Have Allergies

Local animal shelters are full of animals that would make great pets for families. Some of these rescued animals may be one or a mixture of breeds, some of which may be non-allergenic.

The only way to determine if a specific dog will cause allergic reactions is to spend some time with the animal at the shelter. If one animal causes a severe reaction, there may be a different animal that doesn’t.

Keep in mind that people can develop an allergy to some types of breeds, but not others. If you choose to adopt an animal, you can take specific measures to limit your exposure to the allergens. Keep it out of the bedroom and off furniture, washing the animal frequently and using a HEPA filter air cleaner.

If you or someone in your family has an allergy, finding the right pet can take a bit more time and energy. However, there are options available that allow allergy sufferers to enjoy the benefits of pet ownership without constant allergy attacks and the need for medication.