Salmonella Dangers of Pets

This is primarily an issue with amphibians and reptiles.  


As a recent article documenting a wide spread salmonella outbreak states:

Frogs aren't good pets for young kids 

Children younger than 5 are among those at highest risk for salmonella infections and CDC officials warn that water frogs are not appropriate pets for kids that young. Officials say the frogs should be kept out of homes with young children, children's care centers, hospitals and nursing homes.

Health officials warn that salmonella infections can be spread not only by water frogs, but by other amphibians and reptiles, such as turtles. People should wash hands thoroughly after handling the animals and anything that comes in contact with their habitat.

Kitchen sinks should not be used to empty or wash the frogs' habitat, such as aquarium or fish tank, because of the risk of spreading salmonella to food. If possible, cleaning should be done outside, using disposable gloves. Young children should not be allowed to clean the creatures' tanks or bowls.

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