Having pets is a curious paradox, while they lead us toward numerous health benefits, we are also at the risk of catching diseases that they might carry. Pet owners might get zoonotic diseases unless they take precautions with their furry pals. But don’t worry, I will show you the ways to stay healthy as a pet owner.
Hygiene is vital
Although hygiene is important in each area of our life, it is even more important for those who are big fans of pets. You are at risk of catching serious illnesses unless you strictly follow certain hygienic rules.
It is always required to wash hands with soap:
- Once you touch or have any interaction with animals
- Once you feed your animals
- Once you handle something that belongs to animals
- Once you clean your pets
- Once you leave your pets’ shelter (i.e. dog bed)
- Before you eat or drink something
- Before you prepare a meal or drinks
By washing your hands with the help of soap, you can easily eradicate germs. Parents should always be careful with their children after they play with animals.
Your pet’s health is important
Regardless of what type of pet you own, it is essential to keep them healthy and hygienic to maintain your and your family’s health. For centuries, pets have carried certain diseases from place to place. So as to avoid such zoonotic diseases, attending regular veterinary checkups is critical. Thus, it is advised to bring your pets for a regular veteran checkup. Additionally, pets need a good diet, consistent water, comfortable shelter, and training. Always make sure to get them vaccinated and be careful with fleas and ticks.
Kids’ interaction with pets
Kids are the ones who love animals the most. Therefore, they should be taught how to interact with them properly. As an adult, we know what appropriate interaction with animals looks like, but kids, specifically those under 5 years old, should be supervised when playing with animals. Make sure your kids clean their hands right after touching pets or anything belonging to the pet. In a short, adults should be extra careful with children when they interact with their furry friends.
Keeping your pets’ environment hygienic
It is impossible to keep our pets clean without maintaining a hygienic environment (cages, beds, food, or water dishes). Regular cleaning of the animals’ environment can prevent the spread of germs between pets and people. Apart from that, dogs’ feces should always be far away from where we live in. This is because animals’ waste may contain microbes that are harmful to human beings. Children also should not go near places where there might be animal waste to avoid catching diseases such as roundworms.