What is a Zoonotic Disease?
My veterinarian said people can get zoonotic diseases. What does this mean?
A “zoonotic” disease is a disease of animals that may be transmitted to man under natural conditions (example: rabies, parasites, salmonella). Whenever anyone is around animals there is a risk of contracting a zoonotic disease. You and your family can minimize those risks by following several practices.
Practice good hygiene. Wash your hands before eating and after handling any animal to prevent the spread of parasites. Make sure your pet is healthy. Yearly physical examinations are recommended, and if your pet is over five to seven years of age, it is best to have twice yearly examinations.
Have your pet’s stool (feces) sample checked microscopically by your veterinarian for parasites. Most veterinarians recommend checking fecal samples at least once a year. For parasite prevention, several of the monthly heartworm medications dispensed by your veterinarian also protect against many common parasites. Talk to your veterinarian about which parasite prevention medications are best for your pet. These medications should be given year round, and come in both topical and pill form.
Feed your pet a good quality commercial diet. Do not allow it to roam and scavenge food from unhealthy sources such as garbage.
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