Q: Do our pets carry any parasites that could be transmitted to humans? What are the types that are found in humans and where would we be exposed to them?
A: In answer to your question regarding pets, that’s a clear yes. And, it remains a clear yes when we consider animals in the wild that we may come in contact with, those that we eat on a regular basis when we sit down to dinner, and the fish that we eat if it isn’t properly prepared. The condition is known as a zoonotic disease, one that can be passed from animals to humans. Zoonotic disorders may be caused by parasites, bacteria, fungi and viruses, some of which are quite common. There are instances when an individual can become quite ill with diarrhea, fever and muscle aches and pains, and other instances when the human will have no symptoms at all, nor will he or she ever get sick. Cows and pigs may carry parasites such as trichinella or cryptosporidium. Raccoons may carry baylisascaris. Puppies and kittens may be infected with hookworms or roundworms.
This is not to imply that all the animals we eat and all the pets we have in our homes are somehow infected, because they aren’t. Initially, there are steps we should take to avoid the possible scenario and question you present. If you walk your dog, be sure to take a plastic bag along and pick up any fecal droppings, disposing of them properly. And, follow this with washing your hands thoroughly as soon as possible.
Tapeworms are not common in our country today, yet eating undercooked meats from infected animals can result in a tapeworm infection. The critters can live in the intestines of some animals that become infected with the parasites when they drink contaminated water or graze in a pasture. And, restaurant kitchen workers who fail to wash their hands frequently when handling raw fish and meats set the stage for transmitting parasites.
If you have specific questions and doubts about your pet’s health, speak with your veterinarian. He or she can either provide answers or can perform testing to be assured your pet is parasite-free. The animal you share your home with doesn’t want to be infected with a parasite any more than you do so take measures to insure the good health of both of you.
