Belinda's Story

“I have lived with a dog allergy for more than 30 years. It triggers symptoms similar to hay fever but, far worse, it also triggers my asthma and I struggle to breathe. Unfortunately, my allergies are often dismissed or not believed. Some people refuse to move their dogs away from me.

“Day to day life can be very difficult. Dogs are allowed just about everywhere with dog-friendly shopping centres, cinemas, shops, cafes, bars, pubs, restaurants, garden centres, libraries, theatres, hairdressers and museums,  you name it.

“I use public transport because I can’t afford a car. I’ve complained to train companies many times about dogs on seats, pointing out that even if the dog is no longer there, it can still cause a reaction.

“My world has become smaller with each passing year. It’s socially isolating and depressing. I feel like a burden to friends and family. I get dismissed and told ‘well, you’re just going to have to get over it’.

“I can’t just get it. I constantly check and double check places.”

Find out more about managing a pet allergy