Another important point emphasized throughout the talk was the importance of advocating with veterinarians for prompt and aggressive care of pets, especially when they are ill. Dr. Sullivan noted that for most of these diseases, pets are not the most common source of infection. The vast majority of this illness is from contact with raw or undercooked meat. Toxoplasmosis is a disease, like many other opportunistic infections, that is present in the majority of the population. A recent study of over 400 HIV-positive people in Florida found that developing toxoplasmosis was independent of whether or not a person owned a pet.
Reptiles have a high rate of salmonella infection.
Look for older, calmer cats and dogs. Kittens and puppies are more likely to have infections, and to bite or scratch people. Use caution when adopting pets from stressful or crowded environments. Consider having a friend with a strong immune system keep a new animal for a while before bringing it into your home. Look for healthy animals.