Obviously, we know that having a pet has loads of great benefits, so what do you do if you have allergies but desperately want a pet? Here the PDSA debunk myths so you can make the best choice for your situation.

Myth #1: "Some breeds of dog don't cause allergies and are hypoallergenic"

Fact: Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but, technically, hypoallergenic dogs (and cats) don’t exist. You can get some breeds that shed less and some people find that less shedding means they have less of a reaction, but you’re very unlikely to find a dog that that leaves you 100% allergy-free!

Myth #2: "Cats with no fur, like the Sphynx cat, don't cause allergies to flare up"

Fact: Sadly, cats with no fur like the Sphynx cat aren’t hypoallergenic. See the next point for why! In fact, there are no scientific studies to support the idea that any breed causes a more or less severe allergic reaction. So with or without fur, your cat can still make you sneeze!

Myth #3: "It's a pet's fur that causes allergies"

Fact: While shedding does contribute to allergy flare-ups, it’s certainly not the cause. Pet allergies are usually caused by dander (dead, dry flakes from your pet’s skin). This falls off them in microscopic amounts wherever they go and triggers allergy symptoms. Fur usually does have dander particles attached, which is why it seems to cause a reaction, but you can have a reaction even if the fur is brushed away, because the dander still remains.

Myth #4 "Because Poodles don't shed, they won't trigger my allergies"

Fact: You might be starting to see a theme now! All dogs shed and Poodles (or other ‘hypoallergenic breeds’) are no exception. Yes, they do shed significantly less than, say, a Malamute, but they still produce the dander that triggers allergy symptoms.

Myth #5: "Pet birds don't trigger allergies because they have no fur"

Fact: Birds can still trigger allergies, just like our furry pets! Pet birds produce feather dander which is released everywhere they go, but especially when they clean their feathers. Just like dander on cats and dogs, this can trigger an allergic reaction. Not only this, people can develop allergies to bird poo particles. People with allergies to birds can have very severe reactions.

What to do if you have pet allergies

It can be really difficult if you’re an animal lover but have pet allergies. Some people find over the counter treatments like antihistamines helpful for mild allergies. If you speak to your doctor, they will be able to give you advice on how best to manage your allergy and reduce flare-ups.

Getting a pet who sheds less may help, as there will be less dander to trigger your allergies, but this won’t stop them completely. Even within breeds or types there is some variation. Some people find that there’s differences in how much they react between individual cats or dogs – maybe because of differences in the amount of dander they produce or for some other reason. Some people with mild allergies also report that after some time having them, they’re fine around their own pet (who they may have built up a ‘tolerance’ to), but they still react to other people’s pets.

Ways to reduce flare-ups can be to hoover regularly and wash your pet’s bedding (and anywhere they spend lots of time) regularly. Make sure your hoover has a HEPA filter. Having someone else (who isn’t allergic) groom your pet regularly may help them drop less dander around the house. Ideally, you could also make certain rooms (like your bedroom!) off-limits to your pet so their dander doesn’t get in your bed and cause allergy symptoms. Wash your hands after touching your pet before you touch your face. An air purifier with a HEPA filter can help to filter out the allergens in the air.