Dogs and cats may also harbor the organism. Transmission is usually by inhalation of dust from dried droppings and feathers in an enclosed environment. The organism may be excreted from feces for long periods after recovery of the animal from clinical disease. Because of their intimate association with humans, the dog and cat are probably more important as reservoirs than other animal pets. Third, pet animals have been known to bite or scratch persons, even those known to them.
Young dogs are more likely to bite than older ones.
Many persons are deathly afraid of pet animals, especially the dog, and when they enter a residence hall it should be their right not to have to encounter a dog in the foyer, lounge areas, or a corridor. Also, in this country there is a growing preference for owning larger dogs, with bites being more severe as a consequence. In the same regard, the free-roaming dog and resultant dog packs have been a problem at times in North Village and the Southwest area. Several persons have been bitten in North Village and the Southwest area. Several persons have been bitten in North Village, and parents have expressed great concern for their children's safety.