Diseases can be spread between animals and people through stool, urine, bites, scratches, rashes, fleas/ticks, and coughing/sneezing. Keep both you and yourself safe by following these six suggestions.

1. Prevent Disease

• Wash your hands after touching pets, their toys, bedding, or stool
• Make sure pets are on monthly flea/tick control
• Make sure their shots are current
• Make sure they go to the vet at least one time a year

2. Prevent Dog Bites

• Avoid scaring, cornering, or waking up a sleeping dog
• Teach kids how to respectfully approach dogs
• Be careful when coming close to a new dog
• Make sure your dog can't leave the yard

3. Spay and Neuter Pets

Sterilizing pets has many benefits, like lowering their chances of…

• Getting cancer or infection
• Being hit by a car
• Being aggressive
• Wandering or getting lost
• Inappropriate urination

4. Avoid Smoking

• Don't smoke around your pets, even during a walk, in the car, or in the yard
• Throw away cigarette butts; never leave them on sidewalks or in public parks
• Make sure pets don't eat cigarette butts

5. Prevent Obesity

• If you can't feel your pet's ribs, feed them less
• Play with your pet at least 30 minutes a day so you both get enough exercise
• Ask your vet to suggest a diet for your pet
• Give 1-3 meals per day

6. Prepare for Emergencies

• Have extra supplies, like food, water, medicine, a bowl, and a leash
• Make sure pets have an ID tag and microchip
• Carry a picture of your pet
• Know which hotels take pets just in case you must evacuate