Small mammals can make great pets. However, owning a small mammal is a big responsibility, even though the animal itself might be tiny. Before you adopt, think about the people in your household. If a small mammal is still for you, then our guide will help you keep them healthy and happy.

Pets, whether covered in fur, feathers, or scales, are an important part of our lives—most American households own at least one pet. Many people see their pet as a member of the family that brings joy and amusement to their life. However, pets come with their own health risks, and while trhe risk for most people is low, here are four (4) tips that will keep you healthy around your pets.

The CDC does not recommend keeping venomous animals as pets or in household settings. While that seems like commonsense, there are still people who disagree. If you are keeping a venomous animal then it's important you understand the risks, and how to respond if you are bitten or get venom on your skin.

While the risk of animals spreading COVID-19 to people is low, the virus that causes COVID-19 can spread from people to animals during close contact. Furthermore, in extremely rare conditions, pets can get serious illness from infection with the virus that causes COVID-19.

Prior to adopting a new pet, you should evaluate the potential risk of animal carried diseases. Certain people are more susceptible to diseases animals can carry then others, this includes but isn't limited to young children, seniors, individuals with compromised immune systems, and pregnant women.

Infected animals can spread Monkeypox virus to people, and it is possible that people who are infected can spread Monkeypox virus to animals through close contact, including petting, cuddling, hugging, kissing, licking, sharing sleeping areas, and sharing food.

There are many health benefits of owning a pet. They can increase opportunities to exercise, get outside, and socialize. Regular walking or playing with pets can decrease blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and triglyceride levels.

Ferrets have become common household pets in the United States, however ferret owners should be aware that although ferrets can make good pets, they can sometimes carry germs. Although rare, germs from ferrets can cause a variety of illnesses in people, ranging from minor skin infections to serious illnesses.

Keeping backyard poultry (chickens, ducks, geese, guinea fowl, and turkeys) is becoming more popular. People enjoy raising baby poultry including chicks, ducklings, goslings, and poults. Many people keep chickens to have fresh eggs. Although keeping backyard poultry can be fun and educational, owners should be aware that poultry can sometimes carry harmful germs that make people sick.

Poultry includes any domesticated bird often kept for producing eggs or meat, such as chickens, ducks, geese, guinea fowl, and turkeys. Learn how to stay safe while handling backyard poultry, eggs, as well as how to supervise children with the birds and avoiding injuries.