Pet Adoption

Fish are often ideal pets for people with space limitations or allergies to other common pets. Fish come in all shapes, sizes and colors. Learn how to prepare, care for, and safely interact with your new aquarium pet fish.

Millions of households in the United States own at least one reptile (like a turtle, lizard, or snake) or amphibian (like a frog, salamander, or caecilian). Although reptiles and amphibians can make interesting and entertaining pets, it's important to be aware that they sometimes carry germs that can make people sick.

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.

The well-fed house cat is an unmotivated and clumsy hunter. However, your cat still has the skills and instincts of a born predator. This shows up as play – stalking, pouncing, chasing anything that moves, and ambushing you or other companion animals are all feline ways of having a good time.

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.

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.

Turtles commonly carry the Salmonella bacteria on their outer skin and shell surfaces. Reptiles like bearded dragons and geckos can also infect people with Salmonella. These little glassy-eyed creatures may look cute and harmless, but small turtles and reptiles like bearded dragons and geckos can make people very ill.