For many people, pets are like children that provide unconditional love every step of the way.
Unfortunately, pets can be responsible for giving diseases to their owners, according to a review article published in this week’s Canadian Medical Association Journal.
Although the benefits of pet ownership are greater than the risks that pet owners are at when it comes to getting a disease, those who have a badly compromised immune system, may want to be careful, according to the publication The Province.
“It’s like having that young child in the household,” lead author Dr. Jason Stull, a veterinarian at Ohio State University, said in an interview.
“Young dogs and cats can be fantastic pets for the average person. But if there is an individual who is severely immunocompromised, that may not be the best choice. It may make more sense to get an adult or mature animal that’s going to be less likely to carry some of these zoonotic organisms.”
There are reportedly more than 70 known diseases that pets can pass to people, according to Stull. Turtles, hedgehogs, baby chicks and frogs are reportedly known to be a source of salmonella infections.
Animal foods and treats, including raw meat, raw eggs and pig ears, which are commonly used as chew toys, are also reportedly known be a source of salmonella infections.
Stull and his colleagues are reportedly putting together an animal contact questionnaire that doctors can use to further delve into the risks that various patients would be putting themselves in when coming into contact with a pet.
“Clearly these animals are not frequent cause for disease, but there are some specific situations where we really need to be paying closer attention,” stated Stull.
Pet owners should also be aware that our beloved household animals can have illnesses and allergies that are caused by humans, according to CBS Local.
“A dog can be allergic to the same things we do. Indoor things like dust, dust mites, mold, human dander, other pet dander,” explained Dr. Mark Macina, an animal dermatology specialist.
