Keep Little Ones Away from Non-traditional Pets

Dr. Doolittle might have had a lot of fun with a houseful of exotic animals, but if a preschooler lives in your house, it's probably not the best idea.

A new report by the American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that young children should not keep non-traditional animals, such as rodents, reptiles and monkeys, as pets, due to the risks of disease. The report, which appears in this month's issue of Pediatrics says that traditional animals such as dogs and cats can be very beneficial to young children under 5.

Non-traditional animals, which also include hamsters, baby chicks, lizards and turtles, are more likely to bite, scratch and claw than other domesticated pets. According to Dr. Larry Pickering, the report's lead author, approximately 11 percent of salmonella illnesses in children are from contact with reptiles such as lizards and turtles.

The report also says that children under 5 should avoid contact with these types of animals at petting zoos.

After a child comes into contact with an animal they should wash their hands.

Learn More:

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