Hypoallergenic pets for children with allergies

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Allergies get in the way of a lot of things, one of which can be having a pet. According to The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, around 12 percent of Americans are allergic to cats, while another 12 percent are allergic to dogs, reports CNN.

However, almost everyone loves adorable, fuzzy animals, even those with allergies. Plus, having a pet is sort of a must-have for kids, while growing up.

Luckily, there is a way to keep a pet if allergies are getting between you and a little furry friend. Most people have heard of hypoallergenic pets, like Bo, the First Family's Portuguese water dog.

Unfortunately, Fox News has some bad news: there really is no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog. Even if hypoallergenic pets are all a lie, there is some truth behind the label.

Contrary to popular belief, people are not actually allergic to the fur of animals. Eyewitness News explains that when people are allergic to animals, they are actually allergic to a protein found in the saliva, urine, dander and skin of the animal.

Pets that are considered "hypoallergenic" actually produce less of the protein allergen, decreasing the chances of an allergic reaction. According to Mother Nature Network, some pets that produce less of the protein include: the Kerry blue terriers, Devon rex cats, Bichon Frises, American Labradoodles, Syrian hamsters and Leopard geckos.

In addition to getting a "hypoallergenic" dog, there are other tips, tricks and info to unite you with a furry friend.

According to Fox News, each animal is different. For example, if one bulldog causes an allergic reaction, another might not. So, sometimes it is best to spend time with the pet of your choice before deciding to adopt or not.

Another good piece of advice from Fox News is to check if you are actually allergic to dogs or cats, since sometimes it could just be the pollen and dust they bring in from the outdoors that causes an allergic reaction.

Meanwhile, CNN recommends looking into a breed that does not shed hair at all or even a hairless pet. For instance, poodles are known as non-shedding dogs, while the Sphynx cat is actually hairless. In addition, there are other animals that would be good pets, like gold fish.

However, if having a furry pet is important, then maybe consider getting a small animal, instead of a big one, suggests Eyewitness News. Smaller animals will shed less and leave less dander on the furniture, carpets and draperies.

It would also be wise to invest in a good air purifier and vacuum cleaner to clean up pet dander. CNN states that HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) products are the best for trapping dander.

It would also be good to clean your furry friend and shampoo the carpets every week. If that is too much work, however, consider having wooden or tile floors instead.

Lastly, CNN advises always leaving the bedroom or any other frequently used rooms pet free, so there is always a place to stay when your allergies are particularly bad.