A zoonotic disease has the ability to be transmitted from animals to people. Under normal health and hygienic conditions, disease transmission between pets and their owners is not a problem. However, people who have weakened or suppressed immune systems are at greater risk for acquiring diseases from their pets. HIV positive people, people undergoing chemotherapy, and people receiving organ transplants may have suppressed or depressed immune systems. Pets are important emotional support for chronically or seriously ill people; it is important for people to keep their pets as long as possible. Education about possible disease transmission between pets and immunosuppressed owners can help assure the continuation of the relationship between pet and owner.
The following guidelines are taken from a pamphlet produced by the School of Veterinary Medicine at Tuskegee University:
Pet Selection
- Select a pet whose temperament, energy level, and environmental needs match yours.
- Consider an older pet who may be safer than a young one. Avoid reptiles and monkeys.
Veterinary Care
- Have a veterinarian examine new pets and run blood and fecal tests.
- Keep your pet’s vaccinations current.
- Seek veterinary care immediately for sick pets.
- Control fleas and other pests.
Pet Care
- Keep your pet clean and well groomed with toenails kept short and blunt.
- Always walk your pet on a leash. Minimize your pet’s contact with other animals or their fecal droppings.
- Prevent hunting and scavenging.
- Don’t allow your pet to drink from the toilet.
- Keep your pet’s living and feeding areas clean.
- Assure a balanced diet by feeding only commercially prepared pet foods.
- Never feed raw meats or unpasteurized milk.
- Be sure your bird’s seed is fresh.
Other Precautions
- Don’t allow your pet to lick your face.
- Wash your hands after handling your pet.
- Use a litter box liner (trash bags work well). Throw away the liner and litter daily. Keep the litter box away from food areas.
- Wear rubber gloves and a face mask when cleaning the litter box, aquarium, or bird cage.
- Minimize contact with urine, blood, feces, and vaginal discharges. Clean soiled areas with a solution of one ounce bleach per quart of water. Wear rubber gloves and wash your hands after each clean-up.
- Don’t allow birds to fly free in your home. You must avoid their droppings.
