Having a pet can be beneficial to your kid. Pets can teach your child a lot at a very young age. Having them take care of their own pet can train them about responsibility. Animals also provide comfort for your kids. And this list can go on.
It is really frustrating when our kids asks us for pets and yet we can’t give in because we are too afraid of the allergies they can get from these cute creatures. But let’s talk about first what causes your child’s allergic reactions from pets and other animals.
Almost all pets shed dander – a combination of dead skin cells and hair (or feathers). This can trigger allergic reactions and sometimes, asthma attacks to people who are sensitive to allergens. Contrary to the popular belief that pet allergies are caused by animal furs, these allergic reactions are caused when your pet shed too much dander.
But you can worry less now because there are pets than are perfectly safe for your kids who are prone to allergies. Here are some of them:
Fish
While this may seem like an obvious and boring choice, this is your best choice if your kid is highly sensitive to pet allergens. If you think this is the best pet for your child, make sure to make a great deal when picking one. Allow your child to choose the supplies your pet fish might need. This includes the fish tank, decorations and so on. You may also allow your kid to take the aquarium inside his or her bedroom. This way, they will likely to develop a good sense of responsibility more effectively.
Hamster
This little creature has very little hair and is very ideal as pets for kids with allergies. While this mammal is more often contained to a cage, a hamster enjoys being pet and handled. Hamsters are also very intelligent creatures and require less maintenance.
Devon Rex
If your kid loves cats, a Devon Rex is your best option for a pet. This low-allergen cat has very minimal fur, which means it will cause less allergic reaction. If you choose this pet for your child, you may need to have your pet’s paw pad and ears regularly cleaned to avoid oil build-up.
Havanese
Who wouldn’t love a cute little dog as a pet? While all dog breeds have dander, the Havanese is inclined to shed less of it. This dog breed is the most popular pet choice for kids prone to allergies. This dog breed has real hair and does not have undercoat to shed, making them the perfect choice as a pet dog.
Irish Water Spaniel
If a bigger dog is want your child wants, this dog breed has a tightly curled water repellant coat that also sheds less dander. Clingy and energetic, an Irish Water Spaniel can be a perfect pet for your allergic child.
Standard Poodle
This dog breed has a long hair-growth cycle, which generally means it will shed less dander. Considered to be a great water dog, a standard poodle have tightly curled fur and lacks in undercoat – a great combination that tends to keep dead hair from loosening and floating in the air, thus producing less dander.
Reptiles and Amphibians
Although less chosen for house pets, these species are great for kids with allergies because of their skin type. Like iguana, all reptile and amphibians do not release allergens into its surrounding area. And besides, they are kind of cute also.
Green-Cheek Conure
Birds are pretty great pets too, but they are not advisable for kid with allergies. Almost all birds cause allergic reaction due to dust and dander. However, this cute medium-sized African native parrot is an exemption. This bird produces less to no dust.
Rex Rabbits
Rabbits are great pets but are less advised for people with allergies. However, the rex rabbits have plush furs, which sheds less dander. Like hamsters, this pet is almost always contained in its cage, which can help in lessening the allergens inside your home. This breed are very intelligent can be trained easily.
While these pets can cause less allergic reaction to your child, it is still important know the specific in handling each pets. Some pets require frequently grooming while others can go on without visiting a pet care specialist.
When you have already decided on which pet is best suited for your child you may head out to nearest pet shop to purchase your child’s first best friend. While there are a lot of pet shops available in the country today, you might want to consider getting your pet from trusted providers like Petsmart.
