Revelation
This past weekend, post-dancing mayhem, I held a friend’s purebred poodle.
And didn’t sneeze.
I’ve been allergic my whole life; I’ve never held a dog more than a few seconds before, and then always had to rush off to wash my hands. And then would usually sneeze or wheeze or get puffy eyes. But this time, I held the soft sweetie, off and on, for at least half an hour, and–nothing.
Earlier in the evening, the dog’s owner had talked to my son:
Dog’s Owner: So, you like dogs, right?
Son: Yes.
DO: Do you think you’d like to have one?
S: I see where you’re going with this, but my mom’s allergic.
I know my son would adore having a dog; I haven’t told him I didn’t react to the poodle because of a host of things–the cost of a purebred (which would be necessary, since a mix would have the bad dog allergens), the cost of dog upkeep, the requirement to walk and feed and take care of the dog even when we’re away, the smell and wear on my furniture (vintage Heywood-Wakefield, about which I am insane. I’ve threatened my son’s friends’ lives if they damage anything).
But the dog was so much fun to play with, and I know my guy would be thrilled.
Aagh!
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August 4th, 2009 at 9:31 am
Seriously, get over the guilt and move on. Learn from me.
August 4th, 2009 at 1:25 pm
My understanding is that Poodles are non-allergenic so I think you should go for it. But you know me, we’re pet central at my house.
Pets give you so much in return, and I believe they’re great for kids. too. If cost is a concern try checking for Poodle rescue groups. You might be able to adopt a dog who needs at home, and at very little cost. Most rescue dogs have been vetted for health and personality issues, too.
August 4th, 2009 at 1:41 pm
Awwww, look at the puppy picture! I love puppy pics.
I have a Poodle, and love her to bits, so can highly recommend them. They’re definitely good for people with allergies (my brother, who is very allergic to animals, can be around her indefinitely with no problems, and they don’t shed at all! You just have to keep them brushed to prevent them bringing in dust from outside). She’s also very, very smart and affectionate, and has never been destructive (unlike a friend’s Scottie that chewed on some of my books once…). Plus I have a tiny yard like yours, and it’s plenty of room for her to run around in. (She is bark-y, though)
Carolyn is right that there are lots of Poodle rescue groups (I got mine as a freebie puppy at an arts festival, so have never dealt with them). I would definitely rec a miniature for a house like yours!
August 5th, 2009 at 7:02 am
Well, you have a child so having a pet couldn’t be that much harder
Another thing to do is find all the information on this type of dog. What are it’s exercise requirements, are they uber intelligent and prone to get bored (this usually results in destruction of property). Are they great for a family or just one person? Also, are they a healthy breed? (Golden retrievers and labs are having problems with hip dysplasia which can run up vet bills)
See, I love Border Collies. Love them. But I know taking care of one would be a full time job. They are very intelligent and need to be challenged all the time. That’s why so many are in competitions and stuff. They need lots of activity. Seeing as how I’m lazy I wouldn’t suit such a dog.
There are other dogs that don’t irritate allergies but I can’t remember the name right now. Gah!
CindyS