Allergic to Animals?
 Even
though furry friends help to lower blood pressure, they can be a
source of stress for allergy sufferers.
Some animal allergy myths debunked:
- Many people assume that they are allergic to their pet's fur.
Actually, the culprits are proteins in pet dander and dried saliva
and urine. More people are allergic to cats than dogs, probably
because cats spend more time indoors and bathe themselves with
their saliva.
- Allergy has little to do with the length of fur on the animal.
Some people may be less allergic to a long-haired cat than to
one of the short-haired variety.
- If a person is not allergic to an animal, it doesn't mean he
or she won't develop an allergy. Most allergies develop after
prolonged contact with an allergen.
 Animals
such as mice, hamsters, guinea pigs, rabbits, turtles, snakes,
lizards and birds carry as many allergens as cats and dogs. Some
of these many also harbor infectious bacteria and parasites, which
is why some species are outlawed as pets in some states. Many
people who opt for these pets may find they are more allergic
to them than to cats or dogs.
- Allergens produced by animals can remain in a room for months
after the animal has left it.
- It is possible for animals to be allergic to people.
Tips for living with pets and allergies 
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