When dropping off your furry friends at a pet boarding facility, you may worry about them getting sick. After all, they’ll be in close quarters with other animals. However, they’re probably even closer with you at home, and with the current COVID-19 pandemic, you don’t want to be giving each other diseases. If you want to protect yourself, your family, and your pets, below is more information about zoonotic diseases. 

What Are Zoonotic Diseases?

Zoonotic diseases, or zoonoses, come from germs that can transfer from people to animals and from animals to people. Such germs include viruses, fungi, parasites, and bacteria. After moving to a new species, these organisms adapt so quickly that researchers estimate 75% of new infectious diseases that emerge in humans derive from animals. 

Rabies is one of the most common zoonotic diseases. It comes from a virus and spreads through the bite of infected animals. Other zoonotic diseases that pet owners should know include blastomycosis, which is a fungal infection, and “cat scratch fever,” which is a bacterial infection. 

How Can Pet Owners Protect From Zoonotic Diseases?

Although zoonotic diseases are scary, pet owners can keep the whole household healthy by taking preventive measures. For example, keep your furry friends up-to-date on all their vaccinations, and take them to a veterinarian when they appear sick. Avoid touching their mucus membranes, as well. The membranes in the eyes, nose, and mouth are especially vulnerable to germs. 

You should also be diligent about flea and tick prevention, and use caution when picking up feces. If you must handle it, wash your hands thoroughly afterward. Finally, only send your animals to reputable pet boarding facilities that require vaccination records from all their clients. 

If you’re looking for a clean pet boarding facility that takes all recommended precautions to prevent the transmission of zoonotic diseases, turn to Robinwood Kennel. A family-owned operation, they’re conveniently located 15 minutes from downtown Cincinnati and only minutes from Northern Kentucky University. Since 1970, owners Joe, Carol, and Peggy have been caring for the community’s pets. To learn more about their pet boarding accommodations, visit their website. Call (859) 781-2352 to make reservations.