Vet J. 2013 Jun 29. pii: S1090-0233(13)00258-X. doi: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2013.05.042. [Epub ahead of print]
Immunocompromised patients and their pets: Still best friends?
Source
The Kimron Veterinary Institute, P.O. Box 12, Bet Dagan 50250, Israel. Electronic address: daniel.elad@gmail.com.
Abstract
The emergence of immunosuppressive human diseases and therapies in the last decades has raised the question of the risks and benefits for this group of patients deriving from their interaction with pets and the necessity to balance them in the best interest of the pet owner. Risks are related to the possibility of contracting zoonotic infections that are more severe and occasionally lethal in immunocompromised patients. To mitigate the risks and allow the owner to keep the pet, guidelines have been devised. The cooperation and communication between the owner, the physician and the veterinarian are fundamental for a rational approach in evaluating of the potential health risks associated with pets as sources of zoonotic diseases. The final decision should, however, be made by the owner, who alone will enjoy the benefits of the relationship but also be the one to bear the consequences.
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