I love my boyfriend but he’s allergic to fur – I can’t imagine a pet-free future

DEAR DEIDRE: ANIMALS are my life, but my new boyfriend is allergic to fur. Are we doomed?

I’m 26 and he’s 28.

We got to know each other online and chatted for weeks before we met up, three months ago.

We clicked instantly and had amazing chemistry.

Sex is brilliant, he’s funny and kind, and we have loads in common.

We’re also both ready to settle down and have a family.

Pets have always featured in my life.

We had dogs when I was a child and, as soon as I have my own place, I plan to get a dog from the animal shelter – possibly a cat, too.

I told my boyfriend about my love for furry friends from the start.

He explained he has a severe fur allergy, which makes him sneeze, struggle to breathe, and brings him out in hives.

With things growing more serious between us, I would like us to move in together at some point.

But I can’t imagine a pet-free future.

What can I do?

DEIDRE SAYS: Some breeds of dogs are “hypoallergenic”, which means they are much less likely to cause an allergic reaction.

It’s possible your boyfriend might be able to tolerate one of these. Contact the Kennel Club (thekennelclub.org.uk).

But if he is seriously allergic, there may still be a problem.

Only you can decide what is more important to you.

It’s still early in your relationship. If he is the one, the decision might become more easy to make.

If you can’t have pets at home, you could volunteer in an animal shelter.