Description

Giving pet dogs or cats natural treats or raw food is supposed to be more "natural" but offers a wonderful opportunity for pet contacts to develop Salmonella or other enteric pathogens. The risk can be significantly reduced by taking preventive steps.


 

Natural treats include:

(1) pig ears

(2) bull penises

(3) cow hooves

 

Raw food may include:

(1) raw, uncooked meat

(2) killing or scavenging wild animals

 

Care should be taken with:

(1) handling and disposal of animal feces

(2) cleaning and disinfecting contaminated areas

(3) hand hygiene

(4) use of cooking utensils in preparing animal meals

(5) locating and cleaning of feeding areas

(6) sleeping with the animals

 

Small children should not be allowed to come into direct contact with treats or raw food.

 

Animals given natural treats or raw food should not have contact with:

(1) infants

(2) very old

(3) immunocompromised patients

(4) hospitalized patients

(5) patients receiving antibiotics

unless all of the treats and diet are known to be pathogen free.

 


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