Can I Get a Dog or Cat if I Have Allergies?

by Britt

Published: August 18th, 2024

Photo credit: PBXStudio / Shutterstock.com

Pets bring so much love and joy into our lives. Unfortunately, for some, the dream of sharing their home with a furry companion is met with the challenge of allergies in the family.

Many people with allergies believe owning a dog or cat is out of the question. However, with careful consideration for the right pet and precautionary steps to reduce the risk, creating a happy home for everyone involved is possible.

This guide will break down everything you need to know about the realities of pet ownership for allergy sufferers, including tips for finding the perfect match and ways to set yourself up for success.

What Causes Allergies to Pets

Before discussing the best strategies for safely introducing a pet into your home, let’s start by asking what causes allergies to pets.

Allergic reactions occur when the body overreacts to the presence of an otherwise harmful substance or trigger, also called an allergen. This exposure can take several forms, including being inhaled, eaten, touched, or through a bite/sting. Four main allergens—dander, saliva, urine, or feces—could trigger a reaction to pets.

People allergic to pets may respond to one of these allergens or a combination. For example, someone could be allergic to the saliva but still be able to pet and handle an animal. Others, responding to the dander, don’t even have to touch the pet because just breathing in the dander from being close to one can start a reaction.

The first step to addressing your allergies and introducing a pet into your home is understanding your individual condition.

Testing for Cat and Dog Allergies

So, you suspect you have pet-related allergies. Now what? For some, pet allergies are incredibly obvious, making it nearly impossible to even be around a cat or dog. For others, a subtle reaction could make you suspect you are allergic, but you’re not positive.

As we just discussed, the first step to owning a pet as someone with allergies is identifying precisely what you are allergic to. This means discovering which pet(s) and which allergen(s) associated with the pet are triggering the reaction.

To do this, I recommend discussing your concerns with your doctor. They can refer you to an allergist for an allergy skin test, the most accurate way to test for pet allergies.

Alternatively, your doctor may recommend a blood test. This is necessary if you have a skin condition or are taking medications that could influence the result.

If the idea of an allergy test makes you nervous, don’t worry! The skin test is straightforward and relatively painless. The allergist will prick the skin's surface, exposing you to tiny amounts of specific allergens, including both pet-related and non-pet possibilities. They will then watch how your body responds (or doesn’t respond).

There are also at-home tests available. However, they aren’t as accurate as a test conducted by an allergist.

Your Environment and Pet Allergies

In addition to responding to allergens directly from the pet, you must also consider how your home environment can contribute to your allergies. This will be particularly important when we discuss ways to reduce the problem and live happily with a pet.

Take a moment to consider the surfaces in your home that could collect or transfer allergens. For example, carpets and rugs are notorious for collecting pet dander. They are also more challenging to clean than hardwood or tile floors. Beyond the flooring, this can also include bedding you are using for your pet, furniture your pet is allowed on, and even the toys they are given to play with.

This isn’t to say that you must eliminate all surfaces that could contribute to your allergies. However, you should be aware of them so you can strategically reduce the risk. More on that to follow…

The Best Pets for People with Allergies

You may have heard the buzz about “hypoallergenic” pets and wondered if that’s the solution you have been looking for. The idea of an allergy-free dog or cat breed is tempting; I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t. Unfortunately, contrary to what you’ve been told, truly hypoallergenic pets don’t exist. There are, however, some pets that are far less likely to trigger an allergic reaction.

Selecting the best dog or cat is easier when you’ve already gone through the process of being allergy tested. That way, you know precisely what to be on the lookout for. Some breeds are known to produce or release less dander into the environment, while others drool less.

Dog breeds recommended for people with allergies include:

These dog breeds are favorites of those with allergies primarily because they don’t shed as much as others. Several have curled coats, like the Poodle and Portuguese Water Dog, which not only shed less but can also trap dander and hair in the coat, reducing the amount released into your home.

Mixed-breed dogs that include one or several of these breeds may also offer the same benefits; however, it’s not guaranteed. A poodle mix, for example, may inherit the poodle coat or the coat associated with another breed in the mix. This isn’t to say that a mixed-breed dog won’t be a good fit for your home; you just need to be aware of this to assess whether a dog you plan to adopt has the characteristics you need.

Similarly, experts recommend cat breeds with shorter coats when selecting a cat. Some breeds are nearly hairless, reducing the spread of allergens as much as possible. Recommended cats for people with allergies include:

Photo credit: Marina-A / Shutterstock.com

The Worst Pets for People with Allergies

Of course, just as there are “best pets” for people who suffer from allergies, there are also some breeds that would increase the risk, almost guaranteeing you will have a problem.

Several dog and cat breeds are known for how much they shed. This includes pets with longer coats as well as double-coated breeds that “blow their coat,” shedding heavily twice a year with the changing of the seasons. Classic examples include Siberian Husky, German Shepherd Dog, Chow Chow, Golden Retriever, Akita, Ragdoll Cat, and Maine Coon.

Additionally, if your allergies are triggered by saliva, you should avoid pets that drool a lot, like the Mastiff, Saint Bernard, Bloodhound, and English Bulldog.

Tips to Prevent Pet Allergies in Your Home

As stated above, there is no such thing as a 100% hypoallergenic dog or cat. To create a home best suited for you (or your allergic family member) and your new pet, you will need to take steps to reduce the risk of allergens collecting and being transferred around the home.

Here are a few tips to help you get started:

Reduce Carpets/Rugs

This isn’t feasible for everyone, especially if you are trying to make this work on a budget. However, if you can, converting your floors to hardwood, tile, or laminate will go a long way to reduce allergies. If it’s not in the budget to change all the floors in your home, consider focusing on those that will address the problem most. For example, the living room, where you spend most of your time, or the bedrooms where you and your pet will be sleeping.

Stay On Top of Cleaning

The more frequently you clean the surfaces in your home, the less they will be able to collect/hold the offending allergens. At the very least, I recommend daily vacuuming and washing your dog’s bedding 1-2 times weekly.

Some vacuums are better suited for pet-friendly homes, more effectively collecting, trapping, and removing dander and hair. We use a Shark Pet Plus Cordless Stick Vacuum in our house and have been incredibly impressed with how well it has held up with multiple pets.

Use an Air Purifier

Allergens like dander are not only found on the surfaces in your home; they can also move through the air. This, of course, can make cleaning them feel like an act in futility. One guaranteed way to reduce the allergens is by setting up an air purifier in the most used spaces in your home.

When shopping for an air purifier, carefully consider the recommended area each device is designed to cover. You may need to purchase multiple for larger or multi-story homes. You should also consider how often doors in the house are kept closed. For example, if you always close your bedroom door throughout the night, the purifier in the living room won’t help with the air trapped in the room with you. A small purifier in the bedroom would ensure you’re breathing in clean air all night.

We have several air purifiers from the brand Levoit throughout our home to reduce allergens, dust, and even the odors that come with having a pet-friendly home.

Connect with a Professional Groomer

While dog breeds like the Poodle are an excellent choice for those with allergies due to the way their curly coats trap dander and loose hair, those allergens will eventually need to be removed. Grooming your dog at home can be counterproductive, releasing the allergens with you standing directly beside them to breathe it all in.

If you have another family member without allergies, you may be able to assign them the task of grooming the dog regularly outdoors. However, the best approach is to connect with a local professional groomer for regular grooming appointments. These grooming experts know how to not only keep your dog looking their best but also effectively remove as many potential allergens as possible.

Choose Toys Strategically (and Keep Them Clean)

Another surface that could harbor the offending allergens is your pet’s favorite toy, especially if you’re allergic to their saliva. Rubber toys are easy to clean; however, when handling them, saliva will be right on the surface of the toy. This is a good option if you have a family member willing to rinse the toys off regularly or if you can do so while wearing gloves to limit exposure. Many of these toys can also be put in the dishwasher for easy cleaning.

Fabric and plush toys absorb saliva, which may help reduce exposure, but they are magnets for dander. Ensure you only purchase fabric toys that can be cleaned in the washing machine. These should be cleaned regularly. We toss plush toys in the washer with the dog beds during their weekly cleaning.

Consider Medication and Treatment Options

After completing your allergy test, discuss your options for managing or treating your allergies with your doctor or allergist.

Some pet allergens can be treated through immunotherapy, a series of allergy shots that slowly introduce the allergen, training your immune system not to respond. This is a long-term solution, requiring shots regularly for approximately 3 to 5 years. However, if it’s effective, it will mean eliminating your allergies once and for all.

Alternatively, you can use allergy medications or nasal irrigation to address the symptoms of your allergies. You will still be allergic to your pet, but you can reduce the discomfort, making living in the same environment as your allergens more comfortable.

Final Thoughts: Balancing Pets and Allergies

While finding the perfect pet for allergy sufferers will require a little extra consideration, it is entirely possible. Pair this with allergy testing, diligent cleaning, and a regular grooming schedule, and you can significantly reduce your exposure to allergens, creating a happy, healthy home environment for both you and your new furry companion.

Remember, patience and persistence are key to managing allergies. But with a little careful planning, you can experience the unconditional love of a pet without compromising your health.

Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Britt

Britt Kascjak is a proud pet mom, sharing her heart (and her home) with her “pack” which includes her husband John, their 2 dogs – Lucifer and Willow – and their 2 cats – Pippen and Jinx. She has been active in the animal rescue community for over 15 years, volunteering, fostering and advocating for organizations across Canada and the US. In her free time, she enjoys traveling around the country camping, hiking, and canoeing with her pets.

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How Can I Remove Plaque From My Dog's Teeth?

We love our dogs and many of us won’t say no to puppy smooches – but to be fair, not all furballs have the freshest breath out there. If your dog has  bad-smelling breath, the culprit might be plaque buildup and the bacteria overgrowth that comes with it. We all know that bacteria are responsible for all things smelly, and when it comes to oral hygiene, the reason why bacteria are there in the first place is bits of leftover food that slowly but surely turn into tartar on your pet’s teeth. The best way to prevent plaque on a dog's teeth is to brush them, but what about existing buildup? How can you remove plaque from your dog’s teeth at home – or is it something that has to be done professionally? Here’s what you need to know about plaque and tartar and how best to remove them.How Can I Remove Plaque from My Dog's Teeth?Maintaining good dental health in dogs is crucial for their overall well-being. Addressing plaque in your dog's teeth is not just about maintaining a bright smile; it's a key aspect that contributes to their overall health, happiness, and longevity. Regular dental care is an investment in your dog's well-being that pays off in various ways - it’s sure way to prevent dental diseases such as  gingivitis and  periodontitis, eliminate bad breath odor, avoid tooth decay and loss, and maintain your dog’s good appetite. After all, dogs depend on their teeth to eat properly. Just imagine the effect of bad or missing teeth. Unchewed food, indigestion, vomiting – the list is long. So it goes a long way to act on this ahead of time and prevent tartar buildup and remove any existing one. Here are just a few tips to consider when dealing with persistent dog teeth plaque:Prevent Buildup With Regular BrushingDogs need to brush their teeth just like us! They’ll need your help to do it, of course. Remember that it is never too late to start. Start slowly and gently with short brushing sessions, gradually increasing the time as your dog becomes more comfortable. Of course, you should use  a toothbrush that is designed specifically for dogs or a similar fingerbrush. The toothpaste also needs to be for dogs only (never use human toothpaste as it may contain ingredients harmful to dogs).

Can I Get Sued If My Dog Bites a Trespasser?

Dogs aren’t just for companionship – they also guard our homes. But what happens if your dog bites a trespasser who’s in your home? Your loving and loyal pooch had a total meltdown when he spotted a stranger trespassing onto his home turf. He stepped up to ward off this intruder by doing what he knew best; barking, growling, posturing, and ultimately biting when his warnings were ignored. Can that person now sue you? The answer to that can be different depending on the state or province you live in however a common theme appears to be: If you were home during the trespass, was the individual warned that your dog was present and would be set loose if they did not leave?Has the dog previously exhibited aggressive behaviors towards humans?Is your pet’s breed banned in your state or province?Is the dog a pet or is he specifically on the premises to perform guard duty? With these points in mind, the general rule of thumb is that you may well be responsible if your dog defends your property from trespassers by biting. However, exceptions to these rules apply and you’ll need to read up on the laws for your specific jurisdiction. What can impact an intruder’s ability to sue for injury, is whether you directed your dog to attack versus alerted the individual to the harm your pet is prepared to deliver if they don’t leave. It’s called “standard of care” and while it may be frustrating to learn that you owe an intruder a measure of safety when they unlawfully enter your premises, it’s not an unusual expectation from the courts or from insurance companies who have to foot the bill if you are sued. And while this standard of care is not to the level you would provide a welcomed guest, it must be “reasonable” which means not unnecessarily exposing the individual to danger. This means that if you are home, you need to offer some type of warning – such as advising of a dog on premises – that will allow them the opportunity to choose to escape injury. Heads up here: posting a “Beware of Dog” sign on your property perimeter is not sufficient to absolve you of legal responsibility. Now, if you are aware that your pet exhibits aggressive or dangerous behaviors towards humans or if he is a breed that is banned in your jurisdiction, you will almost certainly be liable for any injuries to a trespasser. And this is in effect regardless of whether you warned them of your pet’s presence. North of the border, in Ontario, the laws dictate that if an individual is bitten or attacked by a dog while they are on-premises with the intent of committing a criminal act, the owner is not liable. Again, unless, the dog was known to be aggressive and kept less as a pet and more for personal security. Similarly, in states such as Maryland, the owner is not liable for injury to a person if their dog attacked the individual while that person was in the process of committing a trespass-related crime, or attempting to attack the owner. In fact, it’s one of a few states that continue to follow the rule of “contributory negligence” in this type of personal injury case. In short, the owner is not liable for damages if it is determined the victim was even only marginally responsible for his or her injuries. This would include not heeding the warning of a property owner, when advised there is a dog on-premises that could become aggressive. The bottom line is to understand the rules in your particular jurisdiction, read-up on what your property insurance covers (and doesn’t cover), and be prepared to muzzle or leash a dog that has become riled up, rather than setting him loose on an intruder.

Poll Reveals Biggest Pet Peeves of Dog Owners in the U.S.

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What Are Symptoms of Heatstroke in Rabbits?

Pet rabbits can be quite vulnerable to extreme summer temperatures. One particular condition that is most threatening and can be fatal to them is heatstroke. Because of their thick fur and limited ability to sweat, rabbits are susceptible to heatstroke, and you will need to know how to spot the symptoms quickly. Here is all you need to know about heatstroke in rabbits and its dangers.What Causes Heatstroke in Rabbits?Unlike us humans, rabbits rely primarily on their ears to regulate their body temperature. When their body temperature rises to dangerous levels, usually above 104 F (40 degrees Celsius), heatstroke can occur. There are several factors that can contribute to it, and the foremost is high temperature. Exposure to temperatures above 80 F (27 degrees Celsius) can be dangerous to rabbits, especially if they are not accustomed to such conditions. Similarly, high humidity levels can make the effects of heat even worse. This is because they hinder the rabbit’s ability to cool itself through evaporation.Poor ventilation in your home can trap heat and increase the risk of heatstroke. Try improving the airflow in the room and lowering the temperature with a classic stand fan. A lack of shade can have a similar effect, especially if the rabbit is kept outdoors. In such cases, you will have to provide ample shade for your furry friend.

When Can a Puppy Start Eating Kibble?

One of the most exciting milestones in your dog’s puppyhood is the transition from milk and soft foods to solid kibble. This marks a major step in their growth and development and ensures that they receive all the important nutrients for a healthy life. But even so, some owners are uncertain about when exactly kibble should be introduced.Understanding the right timing for this can be crucial for their good development and overall well-being as it helps set a solid foundation for a healthy diet later on in life. So here’s what you need to know before you offer dry food to your puppy.When Can a Puppy Start Eating Kibble?In the early first few weeks of their life, puppies rely entirely on their mother’s milk for nutrition. Nature arranged it so that this milk provides all the essential antibodies that boost their immune system and nutrients that are vital for their early growth. Usually, puppies should stay with their momma and littermates until they are at least 8 weeks old. During this time, they gradually transition from nursing to exploring more solid foods.Around 3 to 4 weeks of age, however, puppies begin showing more and more interest in the food that their mom is eating, and will often nibble on solid foods. These can be softened puppy food or kibble soaked in water. This helps them to become accustomed to all kinds of different textures and flavors, which in turn prepares them for eventually switching to dry kibble and other solid foods.In general, puppies can begin eating dry kibble between 6 and 8 weeks of age. At this stage, their little teeth are developing, and they have the jaw strength needed to chew solid foods efficiently. Still, it is important to choose high-quality puppy kibble formulated specifically for their nutritional needs. Go for a formula that is based on natural, wholesome ingredients and doesn’t contain any nasty filler or artificial substances – meat should be the first ingredient on the list, followed by sources of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, such as veggies and fruit.

How Do I Train My Dog to Wear a Harness?

Enjoying a leisurely walk or adventurous hike with your dog is an incredible way to spend quality time together and strengthen your bond. However, a dog that pulls and lacks leash manners can quickly turn this fun experience upside down.While collars have long been the standard for walking, many veterinarians and trainers are now sharing the benefits of using a harness. They are generally safer and more comfortable for dogs of all ages.However, not every dog will instantly take to wearing a harness the first time they are introduced.In this guide, I will walk you through the steps of introducing a harness to your dog, building positive associations, and setting both you and your dog up for long-term success. 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While most dogs can be motivated with high-value treats, you may find your dog is better inspired to try something new with the offer of playtime with a favorite toy or even with simple praise and attention from you, their person. Knowing this is the secret to training success!Step One – Choosing a HarnessThe first thing to consider is the style of harness best suited for your dog. There are several factors to consider when shopping for the right harness. This includes your dog’s size, the weight of the harness, the adjustability, the material, how easy it is to clean, and any special features the harness may offer.You may even need to consider different harnesses for different situations. For example, you may prefer a classic nylon harness for walks around the block with your pup. However, if you are planning a challenging hike, your dog may be better served by a stronger and more supportive adventure harness with a handle to assist with any obstacles along the way.Finding the correct harness is essential, as your training will focus on making that specific harness a positive trigger for your dog. For the training process to be effective, this harness should be used.Step Two – Introduce the HarnessIn the early stages of training, you’re not going to put the harness on your dog. Instead, you want to give them a chance to check it out and realize it’s not something to be afraid of.To begin, place the harness on the ground in the comfort of your own home. Allow your dog to sniff at it and look it over. As they interact with the harness, occasionally offer praise or a treat. This will start to introduce the idea that the harness brings good things.When you see that they give the harness no more interest than a rug or your shoes (assuming they don’t chew your shoes), you can move on to the next step.

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Which Spring Flowers Are Toxic to Dogs?

Springtime is such a joyful time of the year. The harsh and gloomy winter days are finally over, and nature is awakening – the sun is shining, trees are blooming, and life erupts all over again. But that doesn’t mean that there are no downsides to this season. From spring allergies to spring shedding, there are also quite a few things that don’t spark joy when spring comes. One of those unexpected things that become a downside of spring when you’re a dog is flowers. Yup. Those gorgeous, lush-smelling blooms that appear in the spring can pose a threat to your dog, as many spring flowers are toxic to our canine friends.So without further ado, let’s see which of these pretty, colorful flowers are potentially dangerous for dogs – so you’ll know exactly which of them to avoid planting in your garden or putting in a vase.Which Spring Flowers Are Toxic to Dogs?As we all know, dogs are inquisitive and love to nibble and sniff all sorts of odd things, flowers included. This is why you should be vigilant in the spring when many potentially toxic plant varieties are in season. Keep an eye out for the following flowers when walking your pet out and about or when picking out seeds for your flower beds!Daffodils

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Should My Dog Warm Up Before Playtime?

Our dogs are always up for a good time, whether it’s a game of fetch or a hike on a local trail. But before you unleash your dog’s inner athlete, you may want to consider the importance of a proper warm-up. Physical activity is an essential factor in setting your dog up for a happy, healthy life. However, just like humans, dogs need to prepare their muscles to avoid injuries during exercise. Even a casual game of fetch in the backyard could lead to an unwanted mishap. Let’s discuss the importance of a warm-up routine for your dog, including how to tailor it to your dog’s breed, age, and fitness level. I’ll also share ways to make the process fun and enjoyable for both you and your pup. Discover how a few simple warm-up exercises can prioritize your dog’s health. Do All Dogs Need to Warm-Up Before Exercise? One common misconception about warm-up exercises is that they are only for dogs who engage in dog sports and other high-intensity activities. While canine athletes should warm up before exercise, they aren’t the only ones who benefit from this step.Often, we include our dogs in our favorite activities like running, hiking, or biking (as your dog runs alongside you). These activities can definitely put your dog at risk for injuries if they haven’t stretched or warmed up. There’s a good chance if you regularly engage in these activities, you likely take the time to stretch yourself. Your dog’s needs are no different! What Injuries Can a Dog Suffer from Not Warming Up? If you skip the warm-up before your dog’s physical activity, you are increasing the risk that your dog will experience a variety of injuries, ranging from minor discomforts to significant injuries that could sideline them for weeks or even months to come. In the most severe cases, your dog may suffer an injury that could have a life-long impact on their ability to run around and play like normal. Here are a few of the more common injuries your dog may experience: Muscle Soreness or Cramping Have you ever experienced cramping or sore muscles after exercise? If so, you know just how uncomfortable this can be. While a warm-up isn’t going to prevent muscle pain entirely after rigorous exercise, it can help reduce the pain that develops after their play session. Luckily, these injuries are minor and will subside after encouraging your dog to rest and relax as their muscles recuperate. Sprains and StrainsSprains and strains, the next step up in severity, are injuries that occur when a ligament, muscle, or tender has been stretched too far. There is no set limit on how far is “too far,” but a proper warm-up can extend this limit slightly, reducing the risk of this happening. Like muscle soreness, the treatment is generally nothing more than taking time off and resting. However, more severe cases may require some additional care. Joint Injuries These injuries carry the highest risk for long-term complications. Joint injuries can’t all be prevented with a simple warm-up. However, tight or stiff muscles around a joint will increase the risk of injury. You should also consider doing conditioning exercises to build muscle strength in the muscles around your dog’s joints, protecting them from damage during exercise. If you have a dog that has previously experienced joint problems or is at high risk of joint issues, you may want to consult a certified professional canine fitness trainer or rehabilitation professional to design a set of exercises that will best condition your dog for their lifestyle and favorite activities. How Long Should a Warm-Up Take? One reason why many pet parents may skip the warm-up is due to time constraints. But your dog’s warm-up doesn’t have to be long and overly extensive. The most effective warm-up exercises will take only 10 to 15 minutes. You just need to get your dog moving long enough to get the blood flow effectively circulating through your muscles and increase your dog’s heart rate. Some outside factors can influence this timeframe. On a hot summer day, your dog’s warm-up can be a little shorter than it would be on a colder day in late fall or winter. You can use a sweater or jacket to help reduce that warm-up time during the cool months. I usually outfit my dog Lucifer in the Kurgo Dog Onesie Body Warmer when we’re heading out for winter activities and exercises. Unlike most dog coats and sweaters, it provides coverage to the whole body, including the legs, which is important when considering its use to reduce warm-up times.

Do Cat Colors Affect Personality?

Have you ever wondered if your new kitten’s fiery ginger coat is a warning sign that you are bringing home a sassy whirlwind? Does your black cat’s sleek coat give off the vibes of a mysterious loner?There are many theories regarding the possible connection between a cat’s coat color and their personality traits. However, this leaves many cat lovers curious whether it’s all folklore or a connection exists.Let’s look at the science (or lack thereof) behind the relationship between a cat’s appearance and their personality. Plus, we’ll share the most common traits associated with each fur color and pattern so you can see if it describes your cat.What Determines the Color of a Cat Before discussing the connection between fur color and personality, let’s examine what actually causes different cats to have different coat colors and patterns.Like your hair or eye color, the appearance of your cat’s fur is a reflection of their genetics. This includes the color of the fur, how bright or diluted those colors appear, and any patterns their coat displays (like tabby stripes or calico patches).What is the Rarest Color for a Cat? The Most Popular? As with any genetic trait, some fur coats and patterns are more common than others. The rarest color is a solid-white coat. Less than 5% of the cat population is estimated to be completely white and void of any color (no additional marks or patterns). On the other end of the spectrum, the tabby is the most common cat coat pattern. While most people associate tabbies with vertical stripes along their body, the pattern can also present as splotches, circles, spots, or any combination of these markings.

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Elephants Might Use Unique Names For Each Other, Just Like Us Humans

It seems that humans are not the only ones in the animal world to use personal names – according to a revolutionary new study, African elephants also refer to one another through unique sounds. The study, published in Nature Ecology & Evolution, reveals that elephants can hear their own names over long distances, across the African savanna, and that they speak to one another through a series of low rumbles. The scientific team also reveals that elephants can learn to recognize and call to their mates using their “personal” names, instead of just basic sounds.“Here we present evidence that wild African elephants address one another with individually specific calls, probably without relying on imitation of the receiver,” the study reads.In order to achieve these impressive results, the study used machine learning to demonstrate that the receiver of a call could be predicted from the call’s acoustic structure, regardless of how similar the call was to the receiver’s vocalizations.A herd of African elephants was followed in jeeps in the wild, at Kenya’s Samburu National Reserve and Amboseli National Park, in order to closely observe their behavior and how they call out, and who responds."We've had several incidents where we've been with these elephants and the matriarch of the family will give a call, and everyone in the family will answer,” co-author and Colorado State University ecologist George Wittemyer, said to ITV News. "Then several seconds later, she'll give seemingly a very similar call and nobody in the family would answer except one individual."Researchers then played these recordings of the individual names to elephants and learned that the animals responded more enthusiastically by flapping their ears and lifting their trunks, whenever they heard their own names. “Just like humans, elephants use names, but probably don’t use names in the majority of utterances, so we wouldn’t expect 100%,” study author and Cornell University biologist Mickey Pardo added. Scientists say that animals with complex social structures and close-knit families are more likely to use personal names, as it helps them to be reunited if separated. “If you’re looking after a large family, you’ve got to be able to say, ‘Hey, Virginia, get over here!’ ” Duke University ecologist Stuart Pimm said.“Elephants are incredibly social, always talking and touching each other - this naming is probably one of the things that underpins their ability to communicate to individuals,” Wittemyer added, “We just cracked open the door a bit to the elephant mind.”

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