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Allergic to Dogs? - bb Archives p.9 Sep 2004 - Nov 2004
"Allergic to Dogs?" discussion board is about humans being allergic to dogs. These are the archives. Any message posted on the "Allergic to Dogs?" forum expresses only the views of the author of the message and does not necessarily reflect the views of the board administrator. frank hi guys. it seems like everytime my pug
touches my skin or rubs against it after i play with ehr... my skin
begins to itch, and i begin scratching it which leads to red rashes
everywehre. whats this from? Kris It's an allergic reaction. Wash your hands after playing with your dog. Sue I have recently purchased an over priced adorable Yorkie. I have spent time with my Nephews Yorkie petted and played with him but this little dog is making me sick. I find that the tiny bit of hair he sheds get in the air and irritates my eyes and throat. I've become a clean freak and spend most of the time dusting ,wiping down everything in sight and washing my hands. I have created a whole routine and don't allow the puppy to roam the apartment. Can anybody offer me some tips or suggest a good air purifier. Desparate and a bit tired. Sue Kris Try giving the Yorkie weekly baths with a mild dog shampoo as not to overdy the skin, but still getting rid of lots of allergens. Buy an aircleaner with a HEPA filter, e.g. Honeywell Enviracaire, and run it continuously. Linda My husband has passed away from liver cancer this
August at the age of 38. We had been thinking about getting a dog
next spring - but now I feel that I'd like the companionship and the
protection of a dog now. My 8yr old son and I have been tested and
are both somewhat allergic to dogs and cats. I've heard that the
Wheaton Terriers are hypoallergenic and don't shed much, my
allergist suggests we visit a breeder and spend some time with the
dogs to see if either of us have a reaction. I'm having a hard time
locating breeders of just wheatons in NJ - if you know the names of
any breeders in NJ -please let me know - some breeders seem to have
other pets as well so the reaction wouldn't be a true one. Any
advise? Laura Linda,My story may amaze you. I live in Northern NJ.
I have always been severely allergic to dogs, all my life. Swollen
eyes, scratching, coughing, asthma...the whole deal! Last year, my
older sister was forced to move back home so that she could go back
to school for her Masters Degree. On one condition...her dog (that
she had always dreamed of but could never have because of me) had to
be able to come too. Family is family. She needed us and we were not
about to turn our backs to her. So...they moved in. And I just feel
in love. It was tough, we had rules. No dogs permitteed upstairs ( I
needed a clean air zone). Clean and vacuum DAILY. And I started Zyrtec (allergy medication). It worked but there were bad days. I
ended up in the emergency room more than once for nebulization. My
doctor started me on shots (monthly). I thought they were allergy
shots but they turned out to be STERIODS. I gained nearly 20 lbs in
5 months. I was miserable. Finally I saw an allergist who
immediately started me on Singulair and an inhaler. It was the
secret I needed. No more shots and I can breathe. My allergies have
nearly vanished. In fact, I got my own dog earlier this year. A
poodle (the right low-dander choice for me). She's the love of my
life. And my story gets better. I quit my job in fashion this summer
and I now work for a breeder who also sells pups for a network of
breeders she has set up. Yep! I sell puppies. i work with them every
dog. AND I AM FINE!!! Of course...they are mostly low-dander breeds
such as yorkies, maltese, and shihtzus. But there are tons around me
all day. My boss has over 15 dogs of her own running around me and a
120 lbs Golden Retriever who loves to hang out with me. Although I
can't help you find a wheaton terrier ( I don't know of any in NJ),
I may be able to help you find a dog that's right for you. Ask your
doctor about trying the Singulair/Zyrtec combination. It's the best
move I ever made. I've never been so happy. And the kisses I get
from my pooch every day make even the tough days some better. Melissa Well, I have read some of the posts on this forum
and realized that my allergies aren't as severe as some of you, but
I do have a little story to tell. I have always had really bad
reactions to cats and dogs. My face would get hivey, my eyes itched,
and I would get really congested. I was allergic to even short
haired grey hounds. Then I met my first poodle and discovered the
joy of petting a dog without breaking into hives. I went out almost
the very next day and brought home the first puppy I met. I now know
that this could have turned into a disaster, but I was fortunate.
Now he is going to be five next march and I couldn't be happier.
Sometimes I still get itchy when he licks me, but I make sure to
keep his teeth brushed and give him regular baths. He sleeps on the
bed with me and follows me around the house. I take no meds for my
allergies either. I couldn't imagine my life without him, and I
would get another poodle again in a minute. combact I have a relatively mild dog allergy. Occasionally I
will become congested or sneeze, or get a little redness and slight
itching if I am licked by a dog. Other times I am at homes with dogs
and have even taken care of other peoples dogs for days to weeks
without experiencing noticeable effects. I also lived in a house
with a lab and a german shepherd for about 4-months, and experienced
bad symptoms for the first week or two after which they greatly
diminished. I have consulted an allergist who recommended not
getting a dog, which is what I expected to hear. I do agree that
getting, or even keeping, a pet that you are allergic to is a bad
idea, particularily if you have severe allergies, asthma or
emphysema etc. However, I still consider myself somewhat of a
borderline case due to my inconsistent reaction. Michelle I had wanted to find a dog for my children but I was
diagnosed as a child of being allergic to dogs. I started working
with a wellness company that makes products free of chemicals &
harmful toxins. They have shampoo & many other products made with
tea tree oil. This protects pets from fleas, ticks & other mites. It
is also healing & conditioning for their skin. I've been learning
that many times, people aren't allergic to the pet but the chemicals
in the products used on pets. If this is an inside pet, then those
chemicals also get deposited in carpet & furniture. If interested I
can get you more info. Mike Brown For those of you who are allergic - consider a
labradoodle (or similar). There are many of these designer breeds
around. They can also be registered at the SCBCA (Specialty Canine
Breeders Club of America) http://scbca.tripod.comI have a doodle dog
- and I love him! Denise I heard of a new breed by this SCBCA and was
wondering if any of you have heard of it. They are breeding
Yorkshire Terriers and Poodles. I have a 3 pound tiny poodle and my
friend has a 1 pound male yorky. I think they would make really tiny
dogs, but very cute. So tell me what you think. Please... mandy I have a gorgeous cockapoo puppy and she has made
our lives complete.There are lots of people against the designer
cross breeds but they are normally people without allergies who can
pick any breed they want and they also forget that the bichon was
originally a cross between a spanial and a poodle! I have heard of
the yorkie/poodle,with all of these crosses including the
labradoodle you have to remember that some pups in the litter may
have a shedding coat.We made sure our cockapoo had a curly woolly
coat.Also there is a book in my local book store of dogs of the
world and it includes the cockapoo,labradoodle and yorkie/bichon
which is great. Stephanie Johnston For the person asking about the Y.T and Poodle, that
designer dog is called a Yorkie-Poo, super cute dogs. Lisa How do you get dander out of the house and still
keep your dog? Stephanie Johnston lol, you can't. You can vacuum to remove most
dander, or an air purifier, but as long as your dog has skin it will
produce dander, so technically you'll never be rid of dander unless
you get rid of you dog. Sorry Chris I just recently went shopping for dogs (Jack Russell
Terriers & Chinese Crested). We handled both breeds for approx. 1.5
hours. Suddenly both my hands started to swell to the point that I
couldn't bend my fingers, burning sensation, red coloration,
tingling sensation on fingertips, and pain from the burning
sensation.Is this a common reaction for people diagnosed being
allergic to dogs? Would a hairless dog make a difference? Stephanie H I have always been allergic to dogs. A couple years
ago my mother bought a Yellow Labrador. The allergies are horrible.
My throut gets so swollen and the pain is unbearable. I'm in choir
and public speaking. It affects both. My mother has always been
selfish when it comes to what she wants, especially when we are
talking about pets. I'm also allergic to cats, we have two, one is a
hymalain. He has very long hair. The other has fairly long fur. They
also make me conjested. My allergies get worst as the weeks pass.
I'm in pain practically all the time. For my health I need to move
out when I can. However, I just want to know if any one can tell my
what this is doing to my health. I mean, is it really bad that my
glands are constantly swollen? Does it weaken my immune system
because it's working so hard on the allergies and not other things?
Am I more open to infection? I'm just wondering. If you have any
good articles it be nice to see them. Thank you Jen McDonough If you stay with your mom - go to the doctor and see
an allergist at the very least. I'm not a doctor but it can't be
good to be sick constantly with allergies. I've suffered with
allergies all my life and when I was a young girl no one cared. I've
never been treated but I've heard there's new advancements in
medications. For your healths sake go and find out. My kids want a
dog (and so do I) so I'm going next week for the first time ever and
I have high hopes. I'll let you know. Jen Kelley B. Hi Stephanie...So sorry to hear about the severity
of your allergies. I was born with allergies to dogs, cats, eggs,
strawberries, nuts, dust, just about anything you can think of,
except shellfish. When I was a little girl, I suffered the most. I'm
gradually outgrowing my allergies, but I do still have to be
careful. However, I have a great love for animals, especially dogs.
Here's some tips on dealing with your allergies.I'm not a doctor,
but I was in nursing school and now I'm studying to be a hospital
laboratory technician. You definitely need to start by visiting your
family doctor and getting a full physical. He or she might be able
to give you something like Zyrtec or Allegra to temporarily relieve
your symptoms, but I would also make an appointment with a good
allergist. You might have to start taking regular allergy shots. See
what the doctor says. As far as living with your mom, you should
block off at least your bedroom, and if possible, another room where
the pets are NOT allowed. You need a room to go where you can get
some relief. Something that helps me when I'm playing with dogs or
cats is to wash my hands with lots of soap and hot water when I'm
done petting them. Also, taking an over the counter non drowsy
anti-histamine before I make contact with the animals helps.
Chlor-Trimeton is a good choice. Also, wash your bedding in hot
water weekly. Your mom should be bathing these animals every two
weeks. Try some of these tips. I wish you the best of luck and hope
you're feeling better soon. -Kelley Barbie I have a five year old who has allergies to dogs and
is also asthmatic. My question is how is a greyhounds dander, is it
high, and also where would I go to test her out with a greyhound to
see how she reacts? Stephanie Johnston Just a quick question Barbie, WHY do you want a dog
if you know this about your daughter? I suggest you read the post "i'm
tired of being ill" by Stephanie H. Kelley B. Hi,Is it you that wants a greyhound, or is it your
daughter? Personally, I wanted a dog from the time I was three years
old. I couldn't have one because of my allergies. Here's my advice
about greyhounds:I learned from a reputable greyhound rescue agency
that greyhounds, unlike other dogs, only have one coat of hair,
which is why they cannot be exposed to extremely cold temperatures.
The amount of dander they carry is much lower than other breeds. The
agency said specifically that these are good dogs for people with
allergies. I played with a bunch recently and I didn't have a
reaction at all, not even a sneeze! However, if you do want an
animal, as I told Stephanie, you should block off your bedrooms,
especially your daughter's. She may want the animal to sleep with
her, since they are very sweet and gentle dogs, but it needs it's
own soft bed away from the common sleeping area. You might want to
also invest in some good air filters and some hypoallergenic
furniture covers. The dog should probably be bathed every two or
three weeks. Greyhounds are very intelligent and sweet dogs and they
are great with children. Talk it over with your child's pedatrician
and try talking to some greyhound rescue agencies. They might give
you some more good tips. Best of luck to you! -Kelley Jen McDonough I've been allergic to dogs all my life and it seems
over the years it's changed recently my last attempt to get a poodle
left me seriously unable to breath and ultimately I had to get rid
of him (very sad for my kids). Now, my kids (and myself) once again
want a dog. I have an appointment to see the allergist for the first
time ever (in my life). I also know I have various other allergy
(cats - not as bad, I can live with) and God know what in the
environment. What I'm wondering is there anyone who has used
medication (perscribed) and been able to sucessfully live with what
their allergic to? Plus, what about side effects - I guess I'm not
too keen on taking meds everyday although I will for my kids. I'm
suspose to pick-up this cute little dachshund on the 27th and I'm
feeling a little panicky. Any advise would help - Jen john A lot of times it is not the dog that bothers your allergies. Its their saliva and all the licking. Try to avoid the dog licking your face and wash your hands after they lick you. That may help. Stephanie Johnston Did you go to the dog's home? Have you been around
this breed before? If you are allergic, are you going to just pass
this puppy off too? Think about what the puppy is going through. (Geez
I'm starting to sound like an animal activist)seriously though how
many more puppies are you going to pass off is this one doesn't work
out? Being allergic myself I just get angry when ppl are foolish
because of a strong desire to gain happiness from a pup and forget
that they have allergies. A want for a pup isn't as imortant as the
need for your health and ability to breath comfortably. Even if it
is for your kids, I'm sure a cool aquarium full of cool looking fish
would do just fine. Just like a dog, it's novelty will wear off in a
month or so (or even a couple of weeks) but this way,(the fish)
isn't an intellectual being capable of emotion (though some
say....)plus it's cheaper (get beta bowl kits) sherry Since I was around 5 I have been very allergic to
dogs. The reactions start right away if the animal is dirty and the
house isn't clean enough if its clean the reaction is milder at
first but doesnt take long to start. I start to sneeze and itch.
then i get hives on my neck then my eyes seep sticky fluids and my
throat starts to itch. not long after this i start coughing up
liquid. this has happened with horses, cats, especially with dogs
and every animal with fur that I have ever come in contact with. my
allergies are livable with cats they are nearly as bad. i ahave
always wanted to be able to have a dog and its heart breaking but id
rather be healthy. If there is a chance that i can ever own and love
one I will. I have only recently started to search for the different
types. I think that you should look visit some breeders who should
let you spend as long as you like with the possable pets. look
around I am sure they are out there. Sorry for my wrighting and the
lengthy description. Sherry Shannon D. McKenna From your message, it sounds like you SHOULD NOT get
a dog. If you were allergic to a poodle, you're probably not a good
candidate for a dog. I love dogs, and I am allergic to dogs -- itchy
eyes & asthma mainly. Here's been my experience in a nutshell:
Unlike you, I am more allergic to cats than dogs, and I have yet to
find a dog that I have absolutely no allergic reaction to. I also
have to inform you that I take allergy meds (Allegra-D, Rhinocort
Aqua nasal spray, and Patanol eye drops). I had a lhasa apso/maltese
mix, and my allergies were not too bad with him. I foster-parented a
Yorkie for 4 months and had horrible reactions to him. I now have a
maltese, and my allergies have not been very bad with him. He even
sleeps with us -- but not on the pillows. I also let him give me
kisses on the lips. We keep him in a puppy cut, and we do bathe him
once a week and my husband brushes him. We also have very little
carpeting in the house. I do still feel tightness in my lungs -
almost on a daily basis. I also have really itchy eyes on occasion.
It's all a matter of how much of your allergy symptoms you are
willing to live with for the next 10-15+ years of your life. How
much do you want a dog versus how much are you willing to "suffer"
for it? Obviously I'm willing to "suffer" some for my dog.I do want
to make sure you do not take on a dog too hastily and then have to
get rid of yet a second dog because of your allergies. That would be
a very selfish move indeed - you may think you or your kids will be
the only ones who will suffer the loss, but the dog will too. You
could try to "borrow" a dog from someone you know. You probably will
need to be around the dog for AT LEAST a couple of weeks if not
longer. You could also see about being a foster parent for a rescue
group, but keep in mind that some of those dogs may have health
problems, and you will likely have to pay for the dog's treatment
during the time you are fostering. Jill M I adopted Alice in May from an animal shelter. She
was a stray, and is of mixed breed. My vet says she's probably half
Maltese. She has a shortish, shaggy coat and is about a year old.
I'm 65, and have owned dogs almost all my life without any problems,
but I am allergic to cats. I have had a Maltese, a Yorkshire
terrier, Cairn terriers .... A few days after Alice came to live
with me I developed what I thought was a cold. Two months later I'm
still all clogged up. Is it possible that I could be allergic to
this particular dog? Is there any way of testing for this? I love
her dearly, and couldn't bear to part with her. I would really
appreciate any suggestions. Patrick It's possible to develop allergies at any age - so
it is possible you are allergic. The best test to see if you are
allergic to dogs is to get an allergist to test you. Basically it
consists of either a scratch or injection under the skin of the
potential allergen (in this case dog dander) and seeing is a wheal
forms (like what you get when you get bitten by a mosquito - a
raised bump). They compare the wheal against a control (histamine)
and if it is of a certain size they say you tested positive for dog
allergen. Jill M Patrick - thank you so much for your reply. Two days
after banishing Alice from my bed I can breathe again. I was
avoiding a doctor visit in case she told me to get rid of her. Happy
ending!Jill and and a not-so-happy Alice john reinsch i grew up with dogs, and got worse in my 30's and
40's... but now we are watching someones Kerry Blue, and i am having
no problems with it Jill M Kerry Blues are lovely dogs, so I'm not surprised
they are non-allergenic! I found that taking my mixed-breed terrier
to the beauty parlor helped a lot.Jill Shannon D. McKenna I love dogs; I am allergic to dogs, yet I own a dog.
My reaction is mainly itchy eyes and asthma. I grew up with dogs and
my allergies grew worse and worse through the years. I am
thirty-something now. Here's been my experience in a nutshell: I
have yet to find a dog that I have absolutely no allergic reaction
to. I had a lhasa apso/maltese mix, and my allergies were not too
bad with him. I foster-parented a Yorkie for 4 months and had
horrible reactions to him -- seemed to have oilier skin or
something. I now have a maltese, and my allergies have not been very
bad with him. He even sleeps with us -- but not on the pillows. (I
would recommend, however, that you keep the dog out of your
bedroom.) I also let him give me kisses on the lips. (I also would
not recommend this.) We keep him in a puppy cut, and we do bathe him
once a week and my husband brushes him. We also have very little
carpeting in the house. I do still feel tightness in my lungs -
almost on a daily basis. I also have really itchy eyes on occasion.
I would recommend you go to a doctor and see about getting some
allergy meds. I take Allegra-D, Rhinocort Aqua nasal spray, and
Patanol eye drops -- all for the sake of owning a loveable little
beast! If it is allergies, hopefully the meds will help, and if you
are allergic after all these years, it's going to be a matter of how
much of your allergy symptoms you are willing to live with for the
next 10-15+ years of your life. Obviously I'm willing to "suffer"
some for my dog. amanda hello my name is amanda and i really want a dog but
my moms allergic so i need a dog good on allergies and was wondering
if anyone new some breeders in montreal quebec canada area if so
pleaze write back its urgent Nikki I am determined to get a toy poodle. But I have
moderate asthma and allergies. To cats its severe. But to dogs, it
isn't as bad. Would a poodle be ok with me? Could I keep it in a
playpen and not let it in my room? IS there any kind of medicine I
could take that would be good for a 12 year old? Please e-mail me
with any info or anything that could help. Thanks Mark I too had allergies to dogs and cats as a kid. We
eventually got a toy poodle (Chuckie). Although sometimes if i
touched my eyes after playing with him they'd itch, but for the most
part I was much much less allergic to him than let's say a labrador.
You just have to be careful to wash your hands because they do have
some dander. Good luck! Shannon D. McKenna I love dogs, and, like you, I am also allergic to
cats and dogs, but much less to dogs than cats -- mainly itchy eyes
and asthma. I grew up with dogs and my allergies grew worse and
worse. But, if you're not scared away yet, here's been my experience
in a nutshell: I have yet to find a dog that I have absolutely no
allergic reaction to. I also have to inform you that I take allergy
meds (Allegra-D, Rhinocort Aqua nasal spray, and Patanol eye drops).
I had a lhasa apso/maltese mix, and my allergies were not too bad
with him. I foster-parented a Yorkie for 4 months and had horrible
reactions to him -- seemed to have oilier skin or something. I now
have a maltese, and my allergies have not been very bad with him. He
even sleeps with us -- but not on the pillows. (I would recommend,
however, that you keep the dog out of your bedroom.) I also let him
give me kisses on the lips. (I also would not recommend this.) We
keep him in a puppy cut, and we do bathe him once a week and my
husband brushes him. We also have very little carpeting in the
house. I do still feel tightness in my lungs - almost on a daily
basis. I also have really itchy eyes on occasion. It's all a matter
of how much of your allergy symptoms you are willing to live with
for the next 10-15+ years of your life. How much do you want a dog
versus how much are you willing to "suffer" for it? Obviously I'm
willing to "suffer" some for my dog. I do want to make sure you do
not take on a dog too hastily and then have to get rid of him
because of your allergies. Don't be selfish - you may think you're
the only one who will suffer, but the dog will too. You could try to
"borrow" a dog from someone you know. You probably will need to be
around the dog for AT LEAST a couple of weeks if not longer. You
could also see about being a foster parent for a rescue group - but
if you're only 12 - you're probably too young. Keep in mind too that
some of the rescue dogs may have health problems, and you will
likely have to pay for the dog's treatment during the time you are
fostering. shantehelwig yes toy poodles are ok to have. good luk wat its to ya? I want a dog but one of my family members is allergic. So does anyone know anydogs that would not cause her allergis to act up? Lisa I would ask a vet. Shannon D. McKenna I love dogs, but I am also allergic to dogs --
mainly itchy eyes and asthma. Here's been my experience in a
nutshell: I have yet to find a dog that I have absolutely no
allergic reaction to. I also have to inform you that I take allergy
meds (Allegra-D, Rhinocort Aqua nasal spray, and Patanol eye drops).
I had a lhasa apso/maltese mix, and my allergies were not too bad
with him. I foster-parented a Yorkie for 4 months and had horrible
reactions to him. I now have a maltese, and my allergies have not
been very bad with him. He even sleeps with us -- but not on the
pillows. I also let him give me kisses on the lips. We keep him in a
puppy cut, and we do bathe him once a week and my husband brushes
him. We also have very little carpeting in the house. I do still
feel tightness in my lungs - almost on a daily basis. I also have
really itchy eyes on occasion. It's all a matter of how much of your
allergy symptoms you are willing to live with for the next 10-15+
years of your life. How much do you want a dog versus how much are
you willing to "suffer" for it? Obviously I'm willing to "suffer"
some for my dog.I grew up with dogs and my allergies grew worse and
worse.I do want to make sure you do not take on a dog too hastily
and then have to get rid of him because of your allergies. Don't be
selfish - you may think you're the only one who will suffer, but the
dog will too. You could try to "borrow" a dog from someone you know.
You probably will need to be around the dog for AT LEAST a couple of
weeks if not longer. You could also see about being a foster parent
for a rescue group, but keep in mind that some of those dogs may
have health problems, and you will likely have to pay for the dog's
treatment during the time you are fostering. shantehelwig so u want a dog that u r not goinin to have
promblems with herer are some dogs that r ok to have.old enlish
sheepdog maltese poodles norwitch terrier. Stephanie Johnston Sorry if my last post (RE: Designer Dogs) sounded
krass, I didn't mean it to, it's just that there are so many ppl out
there getting puppies just because they "really want a dog" and
what's not fair is even though they know they have allergies or
asthma, they buy a puppy on others recommendations ( I know I'm
going to be very unpopluar with those kids wanting a dog who've said
"so and so is not allergic to a *papillon*" and their parents are
reading this right now lol) Jacqueline My housemate has a dog (half poodle, half terrier),
so I didn't think she was allergic to dogs. My friend who is dying
with cancer asked me to take care of her dog, and there was no way
possible that I could refuse her request. He is a 2-month-old
half-lab half-terrier who is adorable... but my housemate says that
she might be allergic to him. There is NO way I want to give him to
a shelter, but I don't want to torture my housemate either. What
should I do? Would it suffice if maybe I had HEPA sprays (or
whatever they are), and kept him in my room or the backyard all the
time (never in the rest of the shared house), and made sure he never
had dry skin (producing more dander)? Thanks so much! shantehelwig I no what to do just try and give him a daily bath
once a day.and at the same time tell ur friend that she should
takepills. Ann Are Pomeranian okay for people with allergies and/
or asthma? shantehelwig i really want a pomeranian dog and i want to know if
it is ok to have . i no where to get it if i want but dose it have
fur or hair? shantehelwig I really like to get one of those dogs and i need
one but are they ok to have even tho my family member is allergic
to.there are so cute. I need ine plese some one who nows please help
me out i need one and i would also like to no if there good with
kids Michelle Go to the breeders house and play with the dogs for
awhile. Hold them, snuggle them, get on the floor with them and let
them crawl on you. If you haven't had a reaction within 12 hours,
then they are probably fine. Which ones are "hypo-allergenic" and
which ones are not is a general rule. The real test is how you
personally react to the dog. Patrick Rossiter Does anybody know if theirs dogs that people that
are allergic to dogs are not affected. JuliAnn I have terrible allergies to dogs, and here are a few that I've learned 1st hand are OK because they have "hair" rather than "fur". You'll hear from the AKC about having only one coat, rather than having an undercoat. But that's not the deciding factor. It's more in the texture of the individual hair itself. Poodles, Bichon's, Old English Sheepdogs Shannon D. McKenna I love dogs, but I am also allergic to dogs -- itchy
eyes, asthma -- not a good combo. as all of you know. Here's been my
experience in a nutshell: I have yet to find a dog that I have
absolutely no allergic reaction to. I also have to inform you that I
take allergy meds (Allegra-D, Rhinocort Aqua nasal spray, and
Patanol eye drops). I had a lhasa apso/maltese mix, and my allergies
were not too bad with him. I foster-parented a Yorkie for 4 months
and had horrible reactions to him. I now have a maltese, and my
allergies have not been very bad with him. He even sleeps with us --
but not on the pillows. I also let him give me kisses on the lips.
We keep him in a puppy cut, and we do bathe him once a week and my
husband brushes him. We also have very little carpeting in the
house. I do still feel tightness in my lungs - almost on a daily
basis. I also have really itchy eyes on occasion. It's all a matter
of how much of your allergy symptoms you are willing to live with
for the next 10-15+ years of your life. How much do you want a dog
versus how much are you willing to "suffer" for it? Obviously I'm
willing to "suffer" some for my dog.I do want to make sure you do
not take on a dog too hastily and then have to get rid of him
because of your allergies. Don't be selfish - you may think you're
the only one who will suffer, but the dog will too. I liked the one
person's suggestion about "borrowing" a dog. You could also see
about being a foster parent for a rescue group, but keep in mind
that a some of those dogs may have health problems, and you will
likely have to pay for the dog's treatment during the time you are
fostering. Michelle Go to: www.ask.comType in: "hypo-allergenic
dog"Scroll through the list. There should be a website listing 10-12
of the best dogs to get and 10 or so of the worst dogs. The rest
fall somewhere in between. I am currently looking to get a "Coton de
Tulear." I have considered the Maltese, but they do not do well with
small children 7 and under.The best test is to find a dog you really
like and then see how you react to it. Hang out with the type of dog
for awhile. If you have no reaction within about 12 hours, you are
probably fine (I saw "12 hours" because if you suffer asthma as I
do, you can have an attack up to 12 hours after exposure.)I've gone
to dog shows and just walked around and held different dogs or even
just stood near them and talked with their owners. In some areas I
was coughing my head off, runny nose and water eyes. In other areas
I was holding and petting the dogs and had absolutely no reaction
whatsoever.I just started shots but don't plan to live with shots
the rest of my life just to have a dog and neither should you. Get
one that's right for you and that takes time and research. Michelle Shannon wrote a message about Yorkies and her being
sensitive to them. I spoke with someone who considers herself an
expert and she told me Yorkies were hypo-allergenic. I spoke to a
breeder and they said the same thing--that they were good for
allergy sufferers. They are such adorable dogs. I walked into a
house where they had 3 yorkies and I was coughing my head off,
sneezing--I had a horrible reaction. However, I held a single Yorkie
at someone's house and had only a slight reaction. I am not
convinced they are hypo-allergenic--at least not to me anyway, but I
do wonder if type of food, how much they are bathed and brushed, and
how well ventilated their home is, plays part in how allergic they
are to allergy sufferers. stephanie HI MY NAME IS STEPHANIE AND I'M 13 YEARS OLD I HAVE
NEVER HAD A PET BEFORE BECAUSE OF MY MOMS ALLERGIES BUT NOW MY MOM
SAYS I CAN GET A DOG IF IT DOESN'T HAVE AND FUR AND LOW PET
DANDER.IVE BEEN LOOKING ONLINE FOR HOURS AND I FOUND THE PERFECT DOG
ITS A JACK RUSSEL TERRIER/CHIHUAHUA IS THIS DOG OK FOR PEOPLE WHO
HAVE ALLERGIES? AND IF NOT IS THERE A SOLUTION FOR MAKING THE DANDER
GO DOWN?SOMEONE PLEASE ANSWER THIS MESSAGE. Jen Hi Stephanie, Jen hehehe i forgot the link here it is http://www.yourpurebredpuppy.com/dogbreeds/index.html
JuliAnn Hello Stephanie -Chihuahua's are fairly good for
allergy sufferers. I wouldn't go with ta Jack Russel however....They
are very "challenging" dogs in many respects, especially for people
who haven't had a dog.I have terrible allergies, and have found a
few dogs that are great because they have "hair" like people, and
not "fur" like dogs:Poodle Michelle Chihuahua's I have been told are NOT good for
allergy sufferers. I was told that quite often they are in that "are
they/aren't they?" category and the advice I got was "No." I am
looking at the "Coton de Tulear." They are good with kids, low
maintenance, very little to no health problems, and are one of the
best for allergy sufferers. They look like a big shaggy dog in a
small size. Go to: www.ask.comType in: "hypo-allergenic dog" and
scroll down the list. There should be a website with the top 10-12
hypo-allergenic dogs and the 10 worst dogs. Hope this helps. Jen I am hoping that someone might be able to give me
some information on this. My daughter has been getting fevers quite
regularly only in the winter time. Summer time she is fine. Someone
mentioned to me that it may be an allergic reaction to our dog. I am
just wondering if the fevers could be caused by an allergy to a dog.
The doctor gives her penicillan and the fever will go away for a
week or two but then come back again. Hoping for some help or info
on this. Thanks. Jen Sarah My son is one and has a bad dog allergy, but has
never gotten a fever. I would find a good allergist and just get her
tested so you know for sure. It's quick and painless, and you would
have some peace of mind. Kris Maybe she has frequent colds (viral) during the winter time? Viral infections can nasal stuffiness and congestion, sneezing, runny noses, sore throat, cough, headache, body aches, fatigue, and fever. Twyla Jen,Take your daughter to the doctor, mention your
concern, they can run tests to see what she is allergic to. I just
found out that my daughter is highly allergic to dogs and I have to
give my beloved boston terrier away. Hope this helps! Heidi My Pom of 17 years died in March. I got a new puppy
6 weeks ago, a yorkie. My 6 year old daughter never had an allergic
reaction to dogs before, but she has had a case of hives that will
not go away. I am so hopeing that these hives are not from the
puppy, and that this is just a coincidence. She really doesn't even
play with the puppy much and we keep it out of the upstairs
bedrooms. Has anyone else had a chronic case od hives from a dog?
Lisa Hi, Dawn My boyfriend and I recently bought a labrador puppy,
who is now 4 months old. Ever since we got her my boyfriend bubbles
up (only way to describe it) in hives is he touches her or she licks
him. Not so much from being in the house with her just physical
contact. We hope it is simply puppy fur as he was not allergic to
his afghans or great danes when he was a child. We are about to try
a shampoo/lotion that you can use on the dog to help prevent
allergic reactions in humans/owners but is harmless to the dog. It
is called Petal Cleanse Lotion and the cheapest I have found is from
www.pharmavet.co.uk. Will keep you posted on how we get on. If not
we were told to bath the puppy a couple of times a week either with
or without shampoo, brushing down well before hand as this helps
remove dead skin and hair. Worth a try! Theresa I have had swollen glands since I got my yellow lab
pup in July. I have always suffered from hayfever allergies and I
have never had a dog til now. I wake up every morning with a stuffy
nose and itchy swollen eyes and the glands in my neck have been
swollen for over a month, has anyone ever had this happen to them
before? I also suffer from sinusitus. Cindy Whenever they come over with "Lucky"(the puppy)he
always runs to me with the cutest smile but I always break out in
hives and my eyes start to swollen shut. He's a Jack Russell mix
terrier any suggestions that I can do to prevent Allergic reactions? Andrew As a child, I was diagnoised as being allergic to
dogs but two years ago another allergy test showed to allergy
concerns. My wife & I bought a puppy on 11/14, a little cocker
spaniel. On Sunday, I sneezed some but no other problems. On Monday
morning, I played with the dog for 30 minutes - no problems. Monday
night I played with the dog, it got near my face, licked me a
little. Within a hour, I had red, watery eyes & a rash near my neck.
Now, (Tuesday morning) I only have a little red eye but the watery
eyes & rash are gone. I played with the dog for 15 minutes today but
no problems.Any ideas on what this means? I did not get symptons of
asmatha or wheezing. The pet store has a 2 day return policy (I will
forfeit 20%) but we must decided by tonight. Will my body learn to
tolerate small allergy problems? Any medicines I should take? My
wife really likes the dog but is willing to send it back. Thanks tmand I am no expert but it sounds like an
allergic reaction to your puppy, having read many other entries on
this website. We had to return a puppy this weekend after having her
for only 2 days because our 7 year old daughter couldn't breathe
properly being in the same room as her, no other symptoms of watery
eyes or hives. Our 5 year old constantly cuddled the dog and (before
I could stop her) let her lick her face without any reaction at
all.My husband felt a little tight chested around her and his face
felt a bit itchy too after touching her. He said he could live with
this and just made sure he washed his hands after touching her and
didn't let her lick him and his symptoms improved, however our
daughter could not so the gorgeous bundle had to go back.I would
suggest that you do as my husband did and you may be able to 'put
up' with some minor symptoms but you would have to decide.If you
have read other peoples stories there does seem to be ways of
reducing the severity of your type of reaction but no way of knowing
whether it will get better or worse in time. If there was any way we
could have kept our puppy we would have done but our daughter's
health is too precious. I wish you lots of luck. juie I have a 2 son who absolutely loves dogs. I don't
think he is allergic to the dander as much as allergic to the
salvia. I was wondering if anyone else who has a similar type of
allergy has found maybe one breed of dog easier? I would love to get
him a dog, but he looks like he lost a bad fight after a dog licks
him. Any ideas! I would love to hear them. Heartbroken but hopeful... Hi Juie, Lori PLEASE HELP! I have had hives for the last two
weeks. I'm wondering if it's possible to become allergic to my doggy
after owning him for three years with absolutely no problems before.
Is that possible?Thanks Heartbroken but hopeful... Hi Lori,I'm not sure, but I recall the allergist
telling us that it is possible to develop allergies at anytime in
ones life.Have you recently switched dog food brands with your
doggie? Susan Brown We just got an adorable yellow lab puppy. We all love him to death, but we just found out my mom is allergic. We don't want to give him up, but my mom has asthma as well and is also highly allergic to other animals and many foods as well. Does anyone know of a allergy medicine that is asthma safe and can help her? Mary I am allergic to dogs also. We got a toy poodle two
and a half years ago since they are supposed to be one of the less
allergic breeds. But afer a while my asthma came back. (Asthma went
away entirely for seven years after our previous dog died that we
had for 16 years.) Two weeks ago my Dr. gave me Advair for the
asthma. The asthma symptoms have completely gone away. I feel so
much better. I plan on trying to go off it in the spring or summer
as my asthma gets much better then..goes away in the summer...comes
back in the fall. The Dr. says thats probably because in the fall
and winter I am allergic to other things also and sometimes your
body can handle a certain amount until something finally triggers
it. In my case. the dog. Mandy Could you tell me what advair is please? My 7 year
old daughter sometimes gets a little wheezy and this is usually
alleviated by a salbutamol/ventolin inhaler,but this weekend we
bought a labrador/border collie cross puppy and her reaction was
pretty instant. Her breathing became so bad that although her
inhaler helped it wasn't really effective enough, even when she went
upstairs into another room where the dog hadn't been. Reluctantly we
had to take the puppy back to the pet shop and we all feel
absolutely devostated. Even after only 2 days we all became so
attached to her and imagined she would be a part of our family for
many years to come. Mary Advair is a cortiosteroid combined with a long
acting bronchial dialator which you inhale twice a day. It is
considered preventative treatment. I haven't had to use ventolin
since starting it. It got to the point to where I was having to use
it way to often. It is so nice not to have to think about breathing.
It comes in three strengths. I am using the weakest one. I think I
read where it is approved for children but I'm not sure. Good luck
to you and your daughter. Margaret Owenby I don't know where to go to learn about the worth of
Deerhead Chihuahuas. My mother-in-law got a Deerhead Chihuahua for
me to "cure my asthma". It is true that I have not been cured, but I
do think I am better, probably due to a new medical regime (which
includes Advair, Xolair, and allergy shots), but I think the fact
that I am more relaxed,(which a lap dog definitely contributes to!)
has lessened my bronchospasms. Long story short ... my precious Mary
(who had her first litter of puppies 6/9/04) was viciously attacked
by a German Shepherd on 10/14/04 and died from the injuries. I am
required to provide a statement from a breeder as to her worth to
the insurance company of the people who owned the Shepherd. Can you
help me?? Heartbroken but hopeful... Hi Margaret,There is a website that lists the
average breed prices at www.findapuppy.com/ov/ Maybe you can find a
breeder through this link.Sorry to hear about your loss. Lee HiMy younger sister is classed as a number 4 (the
worst allergy) for dogs, guinea pigs and cats and we happily keep 5
dogs and 3 guinea pigs. She is completely fine with them and her
asthma and ecsthma is under control.Use allerpet D for dogs and C
for cats and guinea pigs. There is no need for hairless dogs or any
animal. All you need to do is be aware of the products out there
designed to help you. Heartbroken but hopeful... Hi Lee,I'm glad to hear that Allerpet worked for
your family. Unfortunately it didn't work in our case.We had a
Chocolate Labrador Retriever that blew his coat twice a year and had
the continual shed. kay HI. Please advise me. After YEARS of wanting a dog,
we have just become proud owners of a Pembroke corgi puppy. She is
both sweet and spunky but I fear I may be allergic to her, how can I
find out for sure? Can an allergist check to see if you are allergic
to different breeds? When I met her I rubbed my face on her etc to
see if I had a reaction [am allergis to cats] and didnt, but maybe
she had just been bathed b/c we have had her one week tomorrow and I
am congested with an itchy throat around her event hough I take
zurtec! Help! What should I do?Thanks in Advance for any advice.
Also, I have 2 small children and dont have time to bathe the dog
constantly so I would like to return her to her breeder so she could
find a nice home if I am allergic. Katie Does anyone else have comments on the Prembroke
Corgi? I've been researching this breed and have not really found
much about allergy related issues and this breed. A friend of ours
has a son with bad asthma and this breed was recommended due to the
low oil in its coat. Anyone else know this breed? They've had the
Corgi puppy for approx. 6 months now and have had no issues what so
ever. This breed does shed a lot, but isn't causing problems with
their son's asthma. Comments? Missy Mamary Hi, I'm a mom of 2 children that are really wanting
a puppy. One of them has shown signs of being allergic. We are
planning on getting a puppy but want to make a good family choice.
Of course I am considering the allergy factor but I am also looking
for the best breed for my family. Can anyone give me suggestions for
a dog breed that is playful and loving yet very trainable. We are
also looking for a dog with little to no odor, little shedding and
little/quiet barking. I appreciate your response. john reinsch my daughter and i are nearly asthmatic around dogs,
yet we have been dog sitting a friends Kerry Blue and have had NO
problems!!! Isabelle You are looking for a Bichon Frise. Although there
is no such thing as a hypo allergenic dog, a Bichon is your best
bet. They shed very very little are extremely merry and playful and
very smart. They also have relative longevity...18 years. I have
severe allergies and wanted a dog for my five year old daughter. I
purchased a Bichon, Blossom. I had problems in the beginning, which
have now dissipated. The only drawback to a Bichon is that they are
white and have a high maintenance coat. However, this works well for
my allergies since I bathe her once a week and then apply Natures
Miracle Dander remover. Good luck. Isabelle JuliAnn I have terrible allergies to dogs, and 5 kids! We
got an Old English Sheepdog, & my Mom has a poodle. Both are good
for allergies because they have hair like you and I, not fur. (Bichons,
Portugese Water Dogs do too.) They shed only like you and I would,
and their hair doesn't hold dandeer, any more than a human does.But
here's why I like an Old English -They are GREAT with kids! Very
patient, not very dominant, never snap, or bite. They need about 30
minutes a day of walking or outside playing, but other than that can
live in a small apartment.They LOVE their family! They want to be
next to someone all the time. But are content to just sit at your
feet.They like other dogs, not too dominant, but they will try to
herd everything. At the doggy park mine is constantly trying to get
the pack to stay together in a group. (Good exercise for her.)They
MUST go to puppy training. They don't learn well as they get older,
but the basics like sit, stay, down, no, stop, drop, will stay with
them FOREVER! This is why I don't recommend people with children go
to a rescue. You need to train into them what you want. (But, they
will NEVER play ball....ever.... just not thier thing.)Being a
herding breed they are VERY social. They love people, and will go up
to anyone, because any human is a petting opportunity! NOT a guard
dog in personality, but many people are fooled because they're big.I
keep mine in a puppy cut because I don't have time to do the
grooming. She's very happy, & I think she's cuter this way. And
we're certainly cooler in this Florida heat!She and my allergies
have happily co-existed for 10 years now. I never would have thought
I'd have found the perfect friend!And you wait until you see an Old
English Puppy! You won't be able to resist!Good luck! Joan If you are considering a dog that will be in your
house, then you are being amazingly, unbelieveable irresponsible.
Your child, if allergic, could have a severe asthmatic reaction to a
dog - if you bring it in the house, and your child has a reaction,
you can't just 'get rid of it' - not only will your family have
bonded with the dog, but you will have contaminated the house so
that your child could be miserable just being home. Your child's
reaction may be limited to sniffles and watery eyes - so what? is
that fair? I think it's wrong to consider a dog outside, because the
family members can pet the dog and still cause an allergic reaction
in your child...you have a good idea that your child will have some
sort of reaction, and if that reaction is mild or severe should not
play a part in your decision--get the kids a fish. Rachel My aunt is extremely allergic to dogs and she comes
over to our house all the time. I think it is fine. We have a bichon
and it is fine. She doesn't need to take medicene at all. We've had
this dog for 8 years and she is wonderful. I think it is fine to get
a dog and have allergic friends and family. Just make sure you get a
hypo-allergenic dog. mandy I've just posted my success story,i hope this may be
of some help to you.Please dont listen to people calling you
irresponsible,if you were then you wouldnt have gone to the trouble
of contacting this site for help.I have read that smaller dogs are
your best bet cos they shed less dander than big dogs,it certainly
worked for us so there ARE things that you can do,oh and i doubt
your kids would prefer a goldfish haha.good luck. Shannon D. McKenna I love dogs. I am also allergic to cats and dogs,
but much less to dogs than cats (luckily i don't love cats too
much!) -- mainly itchy eyes and asthma. I grew up with dogs and my
allergies grew worse and worse. But, if you're not scared away yet,
here's been my experience in a nutshell: I have yet to find a dog
that I have absolutely no allergic reaction to. I also have to
inform you that I take allergy meds (Allegra-D, Rhinocort Aqua nasal
spray, and Patanol eye drops). I had a lhasa apso/maltese mix, and
my allergies were not too bad with him. I foster-parented a Yorkie
for 4 months and had horrible reactions to him -- seemed to have
oilier skin or something. I now have a maltese, and my allergies
have not been very bad with him. He even sleeps with us -- but not
on the pillows. (I would recommend, however, that you keep the dog
out of the bedroom.) I also let him give me kisses on the lips. (I
also would not recommend this.) We keep him in a puppy cut, and we
do bathe him once a week and my husband brushes him. We also have
very little carpeting in the house. I do still feel tightness in my
lungs - almost on a daily basis. I also have really itchy eyes on
occasion. It's all a matter of how much of your allergy symptoms you
are willing to live with for the next 10-15+ years of your life. How
much do you want a dog versus how much are you willing to "suffer"
for it? Obviously I'm willing to "suffer" some for my dog. I do want
to make sure you do not take on a dog too hastily and then have to
get rid of him because of your allergies. Don't be selfish - you may
think you're the only one who will suffer, but the dog will too. You
could try to "borrow" a dog from someone you know. The allergic
person will probably need to be around the dog for AT LEAST a couple
of weeks if not longer. You could also see about being a foster
parent for a rescue group. Keep in mind though that some of the
rescue dogs may have health problems, and you will likely have to
pay for the dog's treatment during the time you are fostering. Alyssa Miler Hi i'm searching for a great dog, i'm allergic to
them though so i need your help. please send me info about the
American Hairless Terrior.PLEASE HELP!-BY- Kris For American Hairless Terrier info, start here:http://members.aol.com/ahterrier/home.html Michelle In response to the type of dog to get, I have been
looking at the "Coton de Tulear." They are kid-friendly, low
maintenance. They don't have the hair care that the bichon does and
are quite cute. Emily In case you have not already purchased a dog, I
would recommend a miniature poodle. I have horrible allergies
(sneezing, itchy eyes and skin and asthma) and have had no problems
with my miniature poodle - dream come true. I would recommend
visiting a breeder and seeing if you have a reaction there. dopderbeck Hi. My name is Dave and I'm allergic to dogs....
Seriously, I've always had sneezing / runny nose / itchy eyes when
visiting friends with dogs. We recently baby-sat a black lab,
however, and I only had mild runny nose. He was a licker, though,
and I got rashes on my arms and neck. But I fell in love with that
dog! I have 3 kids who show no signs of allergies, and we'd love a
labbie of our own. I know the best advice is to avoid getting a dog,
but has anyone had success with allergy shots or anything along
those lines? Thanks. the boy needs a dog hi. based on my research you should look for a
poodle coated dog. some first generation lab-standard poodle crosses
carry the hypoallergenicity of poodles. look for a curly dog. or
better yet visit with the pups and the parents.we have done a lot of
research on the standard poodle. my husband no longer sees them as
sissy dogs, especially after watching a big male jump on the
trampoline. they are very athletic and rated smartest dog. easy to
train and eager to please. not barky or yappy like little poodles
can be. good for older kids or adults to train for agility
contests.they are actually waterfowl retrievers. they are not as
easy to come by as a lab, though. and can be expensive. go visit
standard poodles at the home of a reputable breeder in your area.
someone who breeds for personality and is careful to avoid
inbreeding. they will also certify that the animal is healthy.then
you have a good standard from which to look at other poodles and
poodle-mix dogs. there is a great poodle-mix rescue website that you
can check, too. i think you would not be disappointed. good luck.
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