7 Hypoallergenic Pets

If you or members of your family – including your visiting grandchildren – are allergic to most dogs and cats, you can still enjoy the companionship and emotional comfort that come with having pets. The secret is to choose breeds or species that have as little dander as possible. Here are 7 options for sneeze-free pets.

Ferrets

These cute and cuddly critters don't shed dander the way other furry domestic animals do. Although you'll need a cage, ferrets can come out to play and many owners train the little guys to perch on a shoulder and ride around that way. A word of caution, however: If your ferret runs loose in the house, he'll find small objects and literally "ferret them away" in various hiding places. The name "ferret" comes from the Latin for "little thief"! One ThirdAge editor recalls that her son's ferret systematically bit the button eyes off all the stuffed animals and made a collection of them under the couch. The cache wasn't discovered until spring cleaning!

Parakeets If you think feathered friends don't have dander, think again! Many species can cause allergic reactions. A notable exception is the parakeet, which has some dander but usually not enough to make you sneeze. With patience, you can teach your little bird to say at least a few words, and he'll be good company when you let him out of the cage to perch on your finger or get some exercise flying around. (You'll have to clean up droppings after that, of course.) A word of caution: Don't put a mirror in the cage. Parakeets are "love birds" and your pet may become so enamored of his reflection that he won't pay much attention to you! The same goes for keeping two parakeets. They'll probably prefer each other to humans.

Chickens Backyard chickens have become the trendiest pets of recent years, and they are suprisingly affectionate and pretty. The image in your mind may be the typical white farm chicken, but there are breeds with speckles and other interesting markings. Although your chickens will need a coop, you don't have to lock it. The birds will roost at night and come out on their own to bob around or get some food, and they'll probably follow you when you're out with them.

Turtles First a warning: Do not keep turtles less than 4 inches long. The CDC has banned the sale of these turtles since 1975 because of the high risk of salmonella. Larger turtles, however, are all right but you would still do well to wash your hands after touching them. Also, don't get a snapping turtle because they do indeed snap! They are quite aggressive and can bite your fingers. The mellower varieties include the box turtle and the red-eared turtle. Before you commit to having a turtle as a pet, bone up on the best way to care for the new addition to your family. Experts say that many people don't do well by turtles and other reptiles because they don't research their pets' needs. And speaking of reptiles, resist taking in a teensy and adorable iguana. That little green baby will eventually be five or six feet long and have a razor sharp tail and claws!

Fish Fish truly are hypoallergenic. Watching your colorful aquatic friends dart about in their watery habitat can be soothing after a stressful day. Be sure to learn all about aquarium care so that you keep your fish clean, healthy, and properly nourished. Warning: Overfeeding can kill the fish. Many fish owners like to collect plants and decorative objects to make the fish's habitat attractive and provide places for playing hide and seek.

Sphynx Hairless Cats Most Sphynxes are hairless but some have fine down that can barely be seen. They don't have dander. However, no cat is entirely hypoallergenic,because body oils can produce an allergic reaction in some people. You would do well to be tested for an allergy to cat oil before adopting a Sphynx. If you find you're not allergic to the oils, though, you'll be bringing home a high energy breed that can perform acrobatic tricks almost the way a monkey would. And Sphynxes wag their tails! Your Sphynx will adore people and love to show off for company. Tip: Unlike other cats, this breed needs to be bathed to keep the skin in good condition. Also, don't let your hairless pet get sunburned!

Portuguese Water Dogs Bo, America's current "First Dog," is a Portuguese Water Dog and experts say the Obamas made a good choice for many reasons. The breed is well-mannered, wonderful with children, and loves to romp outdoors. Perhaps best of all, the Portuguese Water Dog does not shed its coat, which makes it as hypoallergenic as possible – although no breed is entirely hypoallergenic. Coat care is essential, including grooming every other day and clipping once a month. In 1984, the American Kennel Club recognized the breed as a member of the Working Group. By now, it's a popular family pet.