Dealing with Pet Allergies

Having pet allergies can be a pain in the neck not only for the sufferer, but for the people who live with them as well. In many households there is a desire to have a family pet, but those desires are squashed when a family member suffers adverse reactions to dander and pet hair. There are over the counter remedies, and even prescription drugs readily available to soothe symptoms and alleviate allergic reactions. However, many people suffer from allergies so severe, that there is no solution available aside from considering a hypoallergenic pet. Hypoallergenic pet breeds vary in size, and level of allergens, as well as price and availability, and there is also a hypoallergenic breed for practically any type of domestic pet.

1. Dogs - There are currently more than a dozen hypoallergenic dog breeds in existence, and further research may make more available as time progresses. Miniature, or toy breeds are the most popular choice for people who suffer allergies, such as the Chinese Crested, which is nearly completely hairless, and the Maltese, which doesn't shed. Other popular hypoallergenic toy dog breeds include the Shih Tzu, Silky Terrier, Pomeranian, and Welsh Terrier.

Although there are several toy breeds that are hypoallergenic, there are also a few dog breeds that range from medium to quite large. These breeds include the Xoloitzcuintli, which is also known as the Mexican Hairless. It has completely no hair, and is comparable to the size of a Wippet dog. Other's include the Peruvian Inca Orchid, Giant Schnauzer, and Goldendoodle crossbreed.

2. Cats - Cat allergies can be the worst, but there are a few different hypoallergenic breeds available to those of you who still adore feline affection. The Russian Blue, and the Siberian cat breeds are naturally hypoallergenic, and both have very short, dander-free coats. Other breeds include the LaPerm, the Devon and Cornish Rex varieties, and most curiously, the Sphynx, which is the breed of cat featured in the Austin Powers' movies, as Doctor Evil's pet cat, Mr. Bigglesworth. The Sphynx is a very unique breed in that the cats are very dog-like in their characteristics. Their hairless bodies require frequent bathing, but Sphynx cats ordinarily like the water!

3. Small Animals - Hairless Guinea pigs and hamsters make great hypoallergenic pets for children with allergies.

4. Exotic Pets - People with allergies often skip traditional pets altogether and opt for more exotic companions like snakes, lizards, and aquaria. The aquarium hobby is rich and rewarding, and many people are very passionate about their reptile habitats as well. Iguanas make great pets because they are intelligent, social and they even get along well with other animals if introduces properly to the household. Many iguana's respond when called by name, and do tricks such as playing fetch and rolling over on command.

There are several other types of hypoallergenic animals that a person could learn about while searching for the perfect family pet or companion, and prices vary depending on your choice. Visit animal shelters and enquire about any unique animals they may have before you make your choice. This makes it easier to get acquainted with the different types of pets you can choose from.