User:PauletteM/sandbox

• Comment: For the third time.. this is just an essay, not an encyclopedic article. Qcne (talk) 15:37, 24 July 2024 (UTC)

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Public Health and Pet Ownership

Introduction

In western countries up to 65% of households have at least one companion animal. Empirical research investigating the relationships people share with their companion animal revealed both physical and psychological benefits. There are millions of households around the world that keep pets such as dogs, cats, birds, and reptiles. Several common pet-related risks include both physical injuries and zoonotic diseases. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) reports in 2013, animal bites were a significant cause of mortality, and bites from mammals are common and often require in-patient care.

Common Pet-related risk

Several studies show that pet-related physical injuries can range from minor scratches to severe bites . Preventative measures can reduce the likelihood of such incidents. Zoonotic diseases are infectious and transmitted from animals to humans. Examples include rabies, toxoplasmosis, and salmonellosis. Regular veterinary care and proper practices are essential to minimize the risk of zoonotic transmission. Zoonotic diseases cause an estimated 2.5 billion cases of illness and 2.7 deaths globally each year. One study estimates that 3-8% of human cases of campylobacteriosis is due to contact with cats and dogs. Pet contact has been identified as a risk factor for many diseases with case-control studies and molecular typing data strongly supporting pet sources for bacterial, fungal, parasitic, and viral pathogens

Safety measures for different types of Pets

• Dogs- Campylobacter and rabies are carried by dogs. Proper training and socializing to prevent aggressive behaviors in dogs. Obedience training and exposure to various environments and people are crucial for dogs. Leashes and harnesses can control dogs during walks and prevent unexpected aggression or accidents.
• Cats- Campylobacter infection and rabies can be transmitted by cats. Cats should be handled gently and respectfully; rough playing could lead to scratches or bites. Trimming cats’ claws and providing scratching posts can reduce the likelihood of scratching incidents
• Birds- Cryptococcosis and Psittacosis can be transmitted to humans from birds. Birds should have spacious, secure cages to prevent escapes and injuries, they should be handled with care to prevent stress
• Reptiles and amphibians- Salmonellosis infection can be spread by birds. These animals should be handled minimally with proper equipment to prevent scratches. Salmonella infection can be prevented by practicing good hygiene.
• Small mammals (rabbits, guinea pigs)- Lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) can be transmitted to humans via the urine or feces of infected rodents. This infection can lead to encephalitis. These animals should have appropriate housing to provide security and prevent injury.  
• Fish- Mycobacterium Marinum infection occurs when breaks in the skin are exposed to contaminated water in aquariums or pools. This infection is usually mild but can get severe in people with weakened immune systems.

Children can often behave unpredictably around pets, some may want to hug, kiss, and be close to animals and others may be afraid. Pets may find children’s behavior frightening or overwhelming. The most common illness children can contract from pets is a stomach illness by the spread of germs or bugs that can cause salmonella or campylobacter . Children with weakened immune systems from HIV, chemotherapy, or steroid medication are more vulnerable to infection and should not be around cats and dogs with ringworm infections . 

In summary, regular veterinary care and good hygiene practices can prevent the transmission of infection. Additionally, safe housing and a secure living environment help prevent accidents and injuries.

Research continues to explore the health benefits of having pets. Some studies show that pets can provide significant mental health benefits such as companionship, reduced feelings of loneliness, and can even alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety .