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Can animals carry diseases I can catch?
Yes, they can. Diseases passed from animals to humans are called “zoonotic” diseases.
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Are these diseases deadly?
Some, such as rabies, are deadly. Many others are not, but can still make you sick.
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What is the risk that I or my children will become infected?
The risk is low, if you use common sense and good hygiene and keep your pet healthy.
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Should I even get a pet, if there's any risk it could give me a disease?
Pets provide many benefits for people, including companionship and protection, and pet ownership is a very rewarding experience. Many pet owners consider their pets to be members of their families.
The decision to get a pet is a personal decision, and should be based on a number of factors, including your family’s lifestyle, living arrangements, and others. Although the possibility of disease is an important factor to think about, the risk is low and often considered to be outweighed by the benefits of pet ownership. Additionally, there are many simple things you can do to minimize your risk.
