Some so-called ‘non-traditional’ pets unfortunately have all too traditional diseases. Unfortunately, some of these can be transmitted to people, particularly from reptiles and some birds. The current advice is printed below:

Current advice from Glen Cousquer (Vet Times Nov 2008)

Reducing the risk of picking up illnesses from non-traditional pets

• Wash hands after contact with animals, animal products or their environment
• Supervise hand washing for children younger than five years of age
• Wash hands after handling animal derived pet treats
• Never bring wild animals home and never adopt wild animals as pets
• Teach children never to handle unfamiliar, wild or domestic animals, even if the animal appears friendly
• Avoid rough play with animals
• Do not permit non-traditional pets (reptiles,birds,small furries) to roam or fly freely in the house or allow them any contact with wild animals
• Children should not be allowed to kiss pets or put their hands or other objects into their mouths after handling food
• Do not permit animals in areas where food or drink are prepared or consumed
• Keep animals clean and free of intestinal parasites, fleas, ticks, mites and lice
• People who are at increased risk of infection or serious complication from salmonellosis (such as children younger than five years of age, older adults and immunocompromised hosts) should avoid contact with animal derived pet treats such as rawhide chews

NB: non traditional pets include reptiles, birds, rabbits, small mammals- ie everything other than domesticated dogs and cats