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Life without Sneezing: Your Guide to Exotic, Allergy-Free Pets


So you’re allergic to cats or dogs, huh? And yet, you’ve always wanted a pet, even though you know that - practically speaking - it just isn’t possible? Every time you come within 10 feet of a furry fellow, your eyes tear up, your nose starts dripping and the sneezes are unleashed? Did you know there are allergy-free pets?

It’s true! At our avian and exotic pet clinic, we have a lot of customers who have been in your shoes. They love animals and have longed to own one for years before realizing that they had tons of options for allergy-free pets. (And who better to give you a long, long list of fur-free fabulous, non-allergenic pets, then an exotic pet vet?) The staff at Long Island Bird & Exotics Vet Clinic are happy to share insight about each one.

Recommended Allergy-Free Pets

The bottom line is that you have plenty of options! There are lots of loving and lovable animals who are easy to care for and totally allergy-safe.

Here is a list of some great pets for people with allergies.

  • Fish - Easy to take care of once tank is set up and great for small apartments.

  • Birds - Longer lifespans and the intelligence of birds allow for a strong bond.

  • Reptiles and lizards - Setting up reptile habitats can be fun and rewarding.

  • Spiders - Requirements for less handling reduce contact allergies.

  • Bearded dragons - Super active and fun pets without the furry mess.

  • Sugar gliders - Fun pocket pets that love to travel in pouches with you.

  • Hedgehogs - These spiky friends have less fur and more fun than other pets.

If you think you’ve made up your mind about which pet to choose, we recommend checking with an avian or exotic vet about where to best buy the exotic pet, how to make sure your pet is healthy and how to care of it. (We have pet care guides for many exotic pets that can help you get a sense of what your new pet will need in terms of food, cage and TLC.)

After you take home your pet, be sure to take him or her in for a checkup at an exotics specialty vet near you.

True Percula Clownfish | Long Island bird vet


Caring for Your Exotic Pet

(It helps to have a vet nearby.)

Just like every member of your family, your new allergy-free pet has specific temperature, humidity and housing needs. He or she requires very specific dietary items to prevent malnourishment. Your cuddly creature also needs special care in case of sickness or injury. If you bring in your exotic pet when you first bring them home, we can offer you tips about how to care for them. We’ll also let you know what warning signs to watch out for if your pet becomes sick.

The Importance of a Specialized Exotic Pet Vet

Because caring for exotic pets is often quite different than caring for cats or dogs, we highly recommend seeing a specialized exotic pet vet. At a specialized vet, everything from anesthesia doses to surgical tools is smaller and designed for the body of small mammals, reptiles or birds.

We’ve found that far too many people wait too long to bring sick animals into the exotic pet vet. Any time your pet stops eating or drinking, acts extremely tired, or does not seem to be the same as usual, then you will want to contact your veterinary specialist.

The Beginning of a Wonderful Relationship!


With proper care, your little critter will thrive in a happy home where he or she is cherished and welcome. We encourage you to do your research before you take home your new pal, so you know exactly what their care will entail.

Exotic pets are fun, loving, and fill you with a sense of pride when you are careful to attend to all their needs. These animals are not the same as cats and dogs, so treating them as unique creatures and ensuring they receive specialized care will help them live a long and fulfilling life.

Have questions about exotic pets? We're happy to help!

Contact Long Island Birds and Exotics

(516) 482-1101

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