There is poison ivy on nearly every rescue. Poison oak doesn't grow too much at all in our area. I am highly allergic, too, but there is a lotion that we put on before a rescue and I've never gotten it. It's not like you have to wade through fields of the ivy, either. Long pants, long sleeves, and throw them in the wash when you get home. Really, I wouldn't not do it because of the poison ivy.

I use Ivy Block (ask for it at almost any drugstore, I've even seen it at Kroger). I smear it all over my arms because that is where I usually get it (if I get it). It creates a thin barrier on your skin.

Other advice for those that are highly allergic: wear long sleeves and good gloves. Put a towel on your car seat so that any you get on your pants will not transfer to your car seat. As soon as you get home, go in and change all your clothes and immediately put them in the washer.

Keep in mind that any bags/containers you use to carry home your plants may pick up some poison ivy oil, so continue to wear gloves (fresh ones) while you deal with your rescued plants. I always wear washable gloves on rescues (canvas, knit or what not); other people wear disposable surgical gloves.

There is poison ivy at almost every location, but sometimes it is just a small amount.