Bella017

Thanks for all the advice. I get hayfever from cats and dogs, but I have NEVER had a reaction on my skin before. We visited the puppies before we got them and my arms did react but we put it down to that they had never been washed and were covered in goodness knows what. I didn't get any hayfever symptoms so we assumed I wasn't allergic (we picked them partly because they're short haired and don't malt too much). Also, we didn't stay that long and the rash went away the same day so we didn't worry. I've been fine with all other breeds that I've come into contact with, though I haven't had as much physical contact with other dogs as I have had with the puppies. The puppies were washed yesterday but it didn't really seem to make much of a difference. I can't see that their hairs have pierced my skin - I haven't found any stuck in my skin or anything like that. Though not wishing it on anyone else I'm glad to know that I'm not the only one who's had the problem. I guess the only thing I can do is hope that it settles down soon and try and protect myself in the mean time. Thank you, Belinda

Hi, I picked up our two gorgeous 11-week old Miniature Pinscher puppies on Friday night. Every time I touch them I get itchy red welts up and down my arms (and any other skin that has touched them, but my inner wrists are the worst) - some look like mozzie bites, some like flea bites and lots of red patches. After touching them I wash my hands and arms and about an hour later it's about 80% better, but the moment I touch them again it flares up. They don't appear to have fleas. Has this happened to anyone else? What can I do? I've been wanting these puppies for over a year and to finally get them but not be able to touch them is very distressing. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Regards, Belinda