Can You Catch Salmonella From Your Pet Turtle?
The short answer is YES. Salmonella is an example of a zoonotic
disease, one which people can get from animals. And although there
are literally thousands of potential zoonotic diseases out there,
fortunately many are either rare or can be easily prevented. Some
good common sense combined with regular hand-washing may prevent
most illnesses.
Salmonella is a bacterial disease that can be associated with
infections involving birds and reptiles, as well as poultry and
pigs. The illness can cause severe diarrhea, fever, and abdominal
cramps. Children, the elderly and those with immune disease are at
greatest risk of acquiring the disease. It is estimated that 2-4
million human cases of salmonella occur in the US every year.
The FDA recently released a Consumer Health Report warning on the
dangers of small pet turtles and salmonella infections. Small
turtles are singled out because of the high risk of infection in
children. This is due to children's tendency to stick fingers in the
reptile tank, or to place the turtle in their mouth. This is why the
FDA instilled a ban on the sale of small turtles under 4 inches in
length since 1975.
How can you avoid a Salmonella infection from turtles?
a.. Avoid turtles in homes with children under 5 years, with the
elderly, or those with immune system dysfunction.
b.. Never allow turtles to roam freely in the home.
c.. Always wash hands after handling reptiles.
d.. Do not clean the reptile tank in kitchen sink or food prep
areas.
For additional information call 645-3116 to speak with one of our
veterinary staff members, or to view the FDA's full report go to:
www.fda.gov/consumer/updates/turtles012508.html.
Pet of the Month
We are proud to announce LMAH's February 2008 Pet of the Month.
Please meet "Dakota" a 12½ year
old Labrador Retriever that is loved by all. See his photo on our
website.
February is National Pet Dental Care Month
Did you realize that over 80% of dogs and cats have some form of
periodontal disease by just 3 years of age. Dental disease has far
reaching affects throughout the body. The best way to prevent dental
disease is to use a combined approach with home dental care, regular
dental cleanings, and other preventative measures.
During February all dental patients having a dental prophy procedure
will receive a "goody bag" of items including dental information
handouts, a pet toothbrush, a CET dental rewards bone, and a sample
of Royal Canin's dental defense diet.
Please call with any questions about your pet's dental health, or to
schedule a dental procedure at 645-3116.
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