Animal allergies

[misspollysdolly]

I am highly and badly allergic to rats and mice (discovered after having pet rats for several years, during which time the allergy took hold; and latterly clearly apparent when we have had both as pests in our home - yuck) - what is the likelihood that I will also become allergic to other rodents/small pets such as guinea pigs or gerbils...?? DS would love a pet - I'm not sure if it is worth the risk.

I think its highly likely I'm afraid. I developed allergies to pretty much all furry creatures as a child (except dogs!). How about getting a rabbit that you can keep outside to minimise your exposure? Failing that antihistamines!

Tropical fish?
One of my DS is highly allergic to various animals - so that's all the pets my kids are getting (unfortunately).
We did have gerbils at one point - but DS was extremely allergic to them & the other kids got bored with it. So I had the stress of his allergy, and the angst that the poor creature got barely any attention.