How to Protect Your Family From Pet-Related Diseases

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By eHow Contributing Writer

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Pets may harbor diseases transmissible to people. Follow the directions presented here to reduce the risk involved with pet ownership.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Step 1

Have your pet vaccinated against rabies following national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines. Your local veterinarian will have this information.
Step 2

Resist making impulse purchases of baby turtles and chicks at fairs, carnivals or roadside stands. These animals can transmit salmonella and other bacteria.
Step 3

Avoid cleaning the litter box when you are pregnant. Cat feces may contain infectious organisms or parasites.
Step 4

Keep children out of sandboxes possibly contaminated with pet feces.
Step 5

Stay away from stray cats and dogs that appear to have skin disease. Sarcoptic mange and ringworm are common and highly contagious.
Step 6

Call animal control when you encounter a stray. They know how to handle the animal safely.
Step 7

Avoid adoption of a non-domesticated animal as a pet.
Step 8

Consult a physician or veterinarian on potential disease risk before choosing a pet.

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