Does your wife like dogs? There are some breeds that are better for people with asthma (so I assume breathing problems). Shih Tzu is a great breed, doesn't shed and you can find one that remains pretty small.

I have a Bichon Frise, she does not shed, she is hypoallergenic and such a loving wonderful pet. We got her about 1 and 1/2 years ago and wonder why we waited so long.

Fish???.........Birds???? Hamster??? Snake??? LOL LOL LOL............OK........just kidding:):) We have 6 cats.......they don't bother me at all..............wish I could have a dog, but we rent and our yard isn't fenced in:(:(

Maybe look into some of the suggestions the others have made:):) Good luck finding the right Pet......they are great companions:):):)

If you can keep the cat totaly out of your bedroom, and off your favorite chair in the living room, and have your wife or someone be responsible for the litter box, you might get away with it. You would also need to keep the hair and dander vacumed up, but for sure do not let it on your bed.
I had a cat for 6 years until we had to put her down. Some one else took care of the litter box and all its dust, and she was restricted to the livingroom and kitchen only.Also the cat must be brushed a lot to keep down the shedding. All this is to protect you. Or your wife could get a little lap dog, but still if it has fur, it needs to be brished to help the shedding.
Good luck on your decision.....But ask your doctor first and have him explain his reasons.

BJ

Interesting links out there about dog 'fur" or "hair": http://www.vetinfo.com/dog-fur-hair-difference.html
Tis a matter of undercoat and grooming from what I see...

Take care,
Dennis

Rut RO.................guess I should ad that our cats are pretty much outside cats.........they come in 3 times a day to eat, like clock work.......spend about 15 seconds after eating telling us how much they LOVE us (by meowing at the door to go back out)...........we usually make one stay in the house at night (he drew the short straw),,,,,,,,,,,,,,for "Rat Patrol"

I still wish we had a dog:):):):)

Birapp.................sorry about your cat:(:(

I've had a cat for 7 years. I was told I needed to find her another home years ago because of my asthma. However, I refused to unless tests showed I was allergic to cats. I wasn't. Kept the cat, and have never had a problem with her.

I have heard about Shih Tzus, too, so maybe that would be a good option.

I am sorry that you are advised to not get a cat. For me; I am allergic to the dander of the cat. Also, most cat liters put off air born dust. Not good when you have damaged lungs. I have a companion/service dog. She saves my life; as she provides me with unconditional love; makes me laugh at her antics; lies in bed with me when I am down and out. Yes, she sheds. Yes, the Doctor says this is not good for my lungs. I love her like I would my child.
There are several breeds of dogs that are hypoallergenic and many dogs that do not shed much at all. I wish you the best.

Guess I should add Bichons require much grooming, but mine is certainly worth it.

Just as a side note - if you did every thing the medical community told you, you'd probably live to 120 or some such thing. And be miserable as all get out. Life is for living. Our four legged kids are part of our lives, hair and all...

I love my pets and they brighten my day.

Denny - I couldn't agree with you more.

Hear! Hear! for Denny's statement i.e. life is for living. The best the DR can do is offer a caution - you still choose. Go for it; based on suggestions here and other recommendations you'll find the cat/dog which will give you so many years of pleasure that it'll outweigh any discomfort.

You might check out this dog guide for the best for respiratory patients.

I have had a Yorkie but not since my empy became more advanced but I remember that he rarely shed and it wa smore like human hair that needed brushing but was not difficult to care for.

Sorry forgot the link. Was remembering how much I loved that little guy and what a treat he was to have around.


http://www.dogguide.net/dog-breeds-for-allergies.php