Best pet to get?

[JesseB.]

Hi,
I am looking into getting a pet dog. My grandpa has one and he's just adorable. My mother may not let me get one, but I pray she does. I need a companion, for when I'm alone at home. The pet I am looking into getting is either a dog (it has to be one that doesn't shed, for I am allergic to Pet Dander), or a bird. Does anyone have any suggestions on what kind of dog or bird I should get?

 

[CeCe]

I'm not aware of a dog that doesn't shed at least somewhat. I looked around and found this site that might be helpful.

http://petplace.compuserve.com/Articles/artShow.asp?artID=2917

 

[JesseB.]

Thanks! I will talk to my mom about this...

 

[Dawn Marie]

Yeah, there are some dogs that are better for allergies. I've heard poodles, Yorkshire terriors, Italian greyhounds, Chinese hairless, etc...

I've got bad allergies too, and when I was 'dog-sitting' a Yorkie once, it didn't trigger anything.

Birds... they can cause allergic reactions too, sometimes. Shouldn't be a problem though if you're considering a dog. Just make sure if you get a parrot-like bird, it's tamed...

I probably didn't even need to say that, but oh well.

 

[fieldmouse3]

Here's a list of breeds that don't shed:

Bedlington Terrier
Bolognese
Bichon Frise
Havanese
Maltese
Poodle

 

[CeCe]

Anytime JesseB. Hope you find the pet that's right for you. They really can be a blessing.

 

[euphoric]

It is also important to remember that many popular species of pet bird have enormously long life spans (as long or longer than humans in some cases). Many members of the parrot family are a lifetime commitment and a few may very well out-live you. Make sure that you are willing to make that kind of commitment.

-brett

 

[JesseB.]

I am ready...

 

[Soulwings]

I would suggest- for dogs- a greyhound if you are willing to commit to a larger breed...anything with short hair doesn't shed terribly, so something like a boxer might be good as well. I'm not totally sure, however...good luck, and let us know!!

 

[Guitar4God222]

Well i dont think there are dogs that dont shed... and i dun like birds (not like that matters to you lol) I think you should get a gecko! Why? because I have one and he's awesome.. Hes a leopard gecko, and he isnt that big... about 8 inches long.. they dont need much, as long as he has water, heat, (from a lamp or heating rock etc...) and they eat crickets and mealworms, Dude! they are awesome! yeah but whatever pet you get i hope you are happy with it!

Steph

 

[JesseB.]

We're thinking of getting a poodle. First thing though, my mum and I are going to talk to the Allergist to see if he has any suggestions on the right pet.

 

[Knight]

Depends on the allergies.

I think poodles are just about the safest dogs to get for people who have allergies to pet dander.

Warning, if you're the slightest bit allergic to pet dander do NOT get a German Shephard. They shed a lot!!!

 

[jesusrocksmyworld]

From all the TV commercials I've seen, Zyrtec (Zur'-tek) is supposed to be a good allergy medication for pet dander. See if your doc says it would work for you; then you don't have to worry about what kind of dog to get!

 

[Extirpated Wildlife]

Ah yes. The poodle. Safe for the whole family.

 

[JesseB.]

Thanks all. Extirpated Wildlife, are you a Conservationist?

 

[Extirpated Wildlife]

Oh yes. just not a vegetarian type.

 

[ZiSunka]

Labrador. The best possible pet. Full of life, loyal and loving, makes you glad to be alive.

 

[BigToe]

those shed a ton lambslove....

poodles are good for people with allergies, they don't shed much. they come in different sizes too, so you can pick one out to best fit your lifestyle.