Protect Children from Nontraditional Pet Diseases

Most families own pets, especially households with children. Almost from the time children learn to talk, they ask to have pets. Many times, parents think that a small, caged pet like a lizard, turtle, hamster, mouse, or hedgehog is the answer. All of these exotic pets are adorable and easy to care for but underneath the cute exterior lies potential risk of disease and infection for pre-school children and infants.

Diseases, Injuries, and Allergies from Nontraditional Pets

Reptiles - The most common risk for children handling reptiles is Salmonella infections.

Rodents - The most prevalent rodents to carry diseases are hamsters, mice, gerbils, and rats that are sold in pet stores. Hedgehogs are another nontraditional pet that put kids at risk for disease and injuries. All of these rodents carry Salmonella and some are even affected with rabies. Children catch these infections through bites, fleas, and holding the infected pets.

Other health risks rodents pass on to children are: ringworm, anthrax, parasites, monkeypox, and tuberculosis.

Prevent Disease from Nontraditional Pets

Do not allow children under five to own rodents, reptiles, baby chicks, and ferrets. Young kids often put their fingers in their mouths and kiss their pets. Small children find holding their tiny pets irresistible, not knowing the risks.

Following these guidelines by older children and adults will prevent injury and infection from nontraditional pets and exotic animals:

* Always wash hand thoroughly after handling small pets or their food. Pet treats sometimes carry Salmonella, traces of feces, and other bacteria.

* Never handle animals in public petting zoos or parks because the animals living conditions and health are unknown.

* Use caution when playing with reptiles and rodents. Playing too rough will cause small pets to bite and scratch.

* Never kiss a reptile or rodent, no matter how clean or friendly the pet appears to be.

* Don't let hamsters, gerbils, hedgehogs, or iguanas run around the house. It is impossible to see all the places they will urinate and leave excrement. This will only lead to breeding grounds for bacteria and disease.

* Make sure older children understand never to put their rodent or lizard on countertops, tables, or any surface that is close to food.

* Clean and disinfect cages often and keep the pet rodents and lizards free of parasites, mites, and fleas.

Keep your kids safe and become aware of the potential risks of owning nontraditional pets. Following these few basic guidelines will keep family members healthy and pets happy.

Resource: Exotic Pet Risks to Children