Am i allergic to hamsters?

How to tell if I'm allergic to hamsters before buying?

• About 8 years ago (when I was 11), I had two pet hamsters. During the 6+ months I had them, I started getting allergies which got worse and worse until I eventually had to get rid of them. I'm 19 now and I want hamsters again, but since it takes a few weeks or even months for my allergies to them to kick in, is there any way I can tell if I'm allergic to them before buying?

• Answer:

  All things being equal, unless you have taken something to supress your allergic response or to overcome and adapt to allergic responses, then it is highly likely that you are still allergic. A quick test you can do, go to a pet store, handle a hamster, then rub your hands on your neck just below your ear; if the skin turns red and little bumps develop, then you are still allergic. Although this test is kinda weird...