Answer
Yes, the health of your pet can affect your family. The type of disease that can be transmitted from animals to humans is called zoonotic disease. There are many types of zoonotic diseases.
A few zoonotic diseases of great concern today are ascarids (roundworms), ancylostoma caninum (hookworms) and feline Bartonella. AAHA doctors add Toxoplasmosis, avian flu, and anthrax to that list. Click on hyperlinks for more information on these diseases from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
These zoonotic diseases are easily prevented with monthly medications that are safe and effective, and should be given to pets year round.
Ask your veterinary professionals today about preventative medications that protect the health of your pets and your children.
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-Answers provided by Frank A. Mondi, VMD
AAHA-accredited New Hartford Animal Hospital & Care Center
This article originally appeared in PetsMatter Volume 2 Issue 1, published by the American Animal Hospital Association. Copyright © 2009 AAHA. Find out more.