Exotic Pets for the Allergy Sufferer

If you’re affected by pet allergies, you might be prevented from owning a dog or cat. Have you ever considered a pet of the exotic variety? There are, in fact, several choices that won’t cause allergic reactions at all! Your Pickerington, OH vet tells you more below:

Ferrets

Ferrets are a close cousin of the weasel, and they don’t give off dander the way cats and dogs do. This means that they’re hypoallergenic for those of us who suffer from pet allergies. Ferrets can make friendly and sociable pets for the right family, and may even be able to be litterbox trained. For more information on the care needs of a ferret, contact your vet.

Reptiles & Amphibians

Reptile and amphibian pets make wonderful companions for those in search of a unique pet, and they’re most often entirely hypoallergenic. Reptile and amphibian pets include creatures like iguanas, snakes, turtles, leopard geckos, frogs, small lizards, bearded dragons, and salamanders. Keep in mind that many of these pets will require specialized heating and lighting gear, and some may eat live or freshly killed prey like crickets or mice. Do you have questions about a particular type of reptile or amphibian? We’re here to help—contact your vet’s office for more information.

Arachnids

Although arachnid pets like scorpions, tarantulas, and spiders aren’t for everyone, they can make wonderful and unique pets for the right owner. They’re also completely hypoallergenic and shouldn’t cause reactions, even when handled. To learn more about whether or not an arachnid or insect pet might work well for you, call your vet’s office.

Fish

Fish, while not able to be walked through the neighborhood or cuddled on the couch, make fascinating pets to observe and care for. Since they’re immersed in a tank full of water, they’re also totally allergy-free! It’s great fun to put together and decorate your fishes’ tank habitat.

Hermit Crabs

Hermit crabs are some of the most low-maintenance pets out there, and they shouldn’t cause any allergy problems. Since they’re most often housed in a tank or terrarium structure, even the substrate along the bottom of the tank shouldn’t cause issues since it’s well-contained. Hermit crabs often make great “starter pets” for young children, who love crabs’ unique shell patterns and colors! Does your pet need an examination? We’re here to serve all of your most important veterinary needs. Call your Pickerington, OH animal hospital.