Guinea pigs, hamsters, gerbils, mice and rabbits are among rodents that make fun pets for children. However, you need to protect yourself and your children from dangers such as salmonella poisoning. The salmonella bacteria can cause diarrhea in humans. Pets with signs of diarrhea, breathing difficulties or unusual discharge from the nose or eyes are at risk of carrying salmonella, as are pets that are listless and droopy. These conditions will require medical attention. Your small rodent may carry salmonella without appearing sick himself. Thus, you need to take precautions to prevent salmonella transmission. Wash your hands thoroughly after handling your pet or anything from his cage and after cleaning the cage. Don’t eat or drink while handling your pet. Never allow your pet to go into food preparation areas. Resist holding your small pet in your mouth or kissing it. Supervise your children so you can enforce these precautions. For more information, contact your veterinarians Portage, MI.
