Zoonotic diseases are diseases transmitted from animals to humans. This group of diseases has the capability to involve the cardiac, neurological, respiratory and digestive systems in mankind. Some zoonoses can compromise a pregnancy if the preventative measures are not known or followed.Zoonotic diseases can be transmitted in a variety of ways. For example, they may be transmitted as viruses, parasites, fungi and bacteria, as the result of bites, inhalation, ingestion or touching infected material such as animal bedding, tissue or earth Zoonoses are not a new phenomenon. The Bible talks of hydatid disease. The Great Plague was caused by the flea, which was carried by the black rat, in the 1600s. Prior to the Second World War there were 50,000 human cases of bovine TB annually, producing a death rate in excess of 2,500 a year. Both domestic and wild animals have the potential for carrying a zoonotic disease.
Animals can be divided into two categories; those in nature (wild) and domestic, (dogs, cats, horses, fish, rodents and birds). The categories immediately point to the complex relationship between animals and mankind. It becomes obvious that animal association, cannot be discussed without introducing both facets of society, namely, rural (farming) and urban (pets). An increasing fascination for exotic pets also means that people should be aware of how to prevent zoonotic diseases associated with them. There is also a high-risk group among campers, walkers and those who pursue outdoor activities, such as golf, when the tick concentration is high because they can cause Lyme disease. While this information might be alarming to some, there is, in fact, no drama.
The message is simply one that says look after and learn about the animals you decide to keep or have close associations with. The benefit is twofold. The animals benefit because you are made aware of their health and hygiene needs and know how to keep them fit and healthy. While doing so, you, (the human animal) are kept healthy, because in taking proper care of the animals, you are in fact taking proper care of yourselves by preventing transmission of any possible zoonoses. Remember; if all the infectious diseases and parasites that humans carry and transmit to others were counted up, that would be frightening. All animals have the right to expect good care from humans, it is , after all a small extension of what we expect for ourselves.