6 Diseases You Can Catch from Your Pet

We own more than 4.35 million pets in New Zealand, with 3 in 5 homes having pets as a part of the family. Often sharing our homes and even our beds, our pets bring joy and companionship. However, are you aware of the parasites and diseases that can be shared between us and our four legged family members?

July 6th is World Zoonoses Day, commemorating the historic first rabies vaccine administered to a human in 1885. This day serves as a crucial reminder to raise awareness about zoonotic diseases, which can be transmitted between animals and humans. Here are 5 zoonotic diseases and illnesses you can contract from your pet here in Aotearoa:

Worms (Canine Hookworm, Roundworm, and Tapeworm)

Worms are internal parasites that can quietly affect your pet and can be passed on to you. Common types include hookworm, roundworm, and tapeworm. Worm eggs can be passed in pet’s poop and contaminate the soil. Public places such as beaches and parks are hotspots for worm eggs. Young children are considered high risk for accidental ingestion, which can lead to the worms migrating into internal organs including the brain and eyes. Hookworm eggs can penetrate the skin (e.g., walking barefoot on soil or sand) and migrate through your skin. 

• It is typically recommended to worm pets that have outdoor access every three months, and monthly if they are high-risk (hunters, fed raw meat, in contact with children or immunosuppressed individuals). Practice good hand hygiene and proper disposal of pet waste.

Mites (Sarcoptic Mange, also known as Scabies)

Sarcoptic mange is caused by microscopic mites that burrow into the skin, causing intense itching and irritation. The mites can be transmitted through direct contact with infected animals or contaminated bedding. Pets infected with mange experience severe itching, hair loss, and red and inflamed skin. In humans, symptoms include intense itching, red rash, and small blisters. 

• Regular veterinary check-ups, good hygiene, and prompt treatment of infected pets can help prevent the spread of these mites.

Leptospirosis 

Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection that can affect both animals and humans. It is transmitted through contact with urine from infected animals, contaminating soil or water. The disease is more common in rural areas with livestock or where rats are present. Leptospirosis can cause symptoms such as fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, kidney or liver damage, and can be fatal.

•  Luckily, there is a vaccine available for dogs to protect against leptospirosis. Please consult your veterinarian for more information. 

Salmonella 

Salmonella can be picked up by contact with infected animals, particularly rodents, birds, and reptiles, or their feces. Contaminated food and water can also be sources. Pets with salmonella infection may exhibit diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and lethargy, while humans may experience diarrhea, fever, abdominal cramps, and vomiting. 

• Washing hands after handling pets or cleaning their living areas and avoiding feeding pets raw or undercooked meat can help prevent salmonella infection.

Toxoplasmosis 

Toxoplasmosis is caused by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii, which can be found in cat poo. The parasite can be transmitted to humans through handling cat litter, soil, or sandboxes contaminated with cat feces. It can often be asymptomatic in pets, but can cause fever, lethargy and respiratory issues. In humans, it can cause flu-like symptoms and serious complications in pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals.

• Pregnant women should avoid cleaning litter trays and wash hands thoroughly after gardening or handling cat litter to reduce the risk of infection. 
• Children are also high at risk, especially playing in sandboxes or dirt areas that neighborhood cats could use as a toilet. 

Ringworm 

Despite it’s name, Ringworm is actually a fungal infection affecting skin, hair, and nails. It is transmitted through direct contact with infected animals or contaminated objects like bedding and clothing. Ringworm appears as red, circular, itchy, rash spots. 

• Ringworm is highly contagious, and pets suspected of having ringworm should be seen by a veterinarian. 

Steps to Reduce Zoonotic Risks

Regular Vet Check-ups: Make sure your pet gets regular vet check-ups to keep up with vaccinations and parasite prevention treatments.

Parasite Prevention: Keep your pet protected from parasites year-round. Worm your pet at least every three months, or monthly if they’re high-risk (fed a raw diet, active hunters, or share a house with children or immunocompromised individuals).

Hand Hygiene: Always wash your hands thoroughly after handling pets, cleaning their living areas, or coming into contact with their feces.

Gardening: Wear gloves when gardening, as pets love to dig in the soil.

Waste Management: Pick up and dispose of pet waste promptly and safely. Use gloves when cleaning litter boxes or picking up pet waste. Pregnant women should avoid cleaning litter trays or handling cat feces.

Protective Measures for Children: Supervise young children around pets and teach them proper handwashing techniques. Keep sandboxes covered to prevent contamination.