November is known as the month of awareness and prevention of zoonoses . In addition to vaccination, this period is a time to reflect on the need for guardians to adopt sanitary and health practices that help protect against a series of diseases in pets and humans.
So in this article, in addition to explaining more about what zoonoses are and the most common types, we have selected valuable tips that, when put into practice, can help promote education about zoonoses, in addition to ensuring the health of your pet and the entire family. Check it out!
What is Golden Novemberpet?
Golden Pet November is an awareness campaign about the importance of vaccination and prevention of zoonoses in pets. This name refers to the color gold, as it symbolizes health and well-being.
Based on this, throughout the month of November, professionals in the veterinary field and companies in the pet sector carry out campaigns and actions aimed at health care and protection.
The main objective of this action is, firstly, to share knowledge and, in addition, to alert owners about the importance of keeping their animals’ vaccinations up to date. This includes, for example, guidance on preventive measures against zoonoses, that is, diseases that can be transmitted from animals to humans.
What are zoonoses?
Zoonoses refer to infectious diseases transmitted between animals and humans. These infections can be caused by different agents, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites .
Transmission can occur through direct contact with an infected animal, through secretions, bites or scratches. It can also occur indirectly, through vectors such as mosquitoes, fleas and ticks , and even through the consumption of contaminated food.
What are the types of zoonoses?
There are a number of zoonoses that can be transmitted from animals to humans and also from humans to animals, as highlighted below.
Chagas disease
This is a parasitic disease transmitted by infected barbers, which affects humans and animals in a similar way. The most affected organs are the heart and the digestive system.
Leishmaniasis
Leishmaniasis is another parasitic disease transmitted by the bite of an infected sandfly. It can manifest itself in different ways, the most common being the development of skin lesions. In more severe cases, it can cause damage to internal organs.
Leptospirosis
Leptospirosis is a serious bacterial disease transmitted by the urine of infected rodents. Symptoms present in infected individuals include: fever, muscle pain, vomiting , kidney and liver failure.
Anger
Rabies is an extremely dangerous viral infection transmitted by the bite of infected animals that affects the central nervous system and can be fatal. The disease can be prevented through vaccination.
Toxoplasmosis
This is a parasitic disease transmitted by contact with feces from infected cats, as well as by eating raw or undercooked contaminated meat. It can cause fever, muscle pain and, in pregnant women, serious problems for the fetus.
How to prevent zoonoses?
It is important to highlight that prevention is essential to avoid the transmission of zoonoses. Below, we highlight essential tips that can make all the difference in this regard.
1. Be careful with the surroundings
You should pay special attention to the environment in which the animal lives, as well as the places it passes through: parks, gardens and public areas . Therefore, avoid squares with a history of the presence of diseases and pests such as fleas and ticks.
At home, always keep the house, bed and floors properly sanitized.
2. Pay attention to your pet’s routine
Your pet’s routine is essential for preventing zoonoses, as healthy habits and hygiene care can prevent the transmission of diseases.
The tip is that you invest in your pet’s hygiene, giving them regular baths and with the frequency recommended for the species. In addition, brush the animal to remove dirt, trim their nails, and clean their teeth , ears, and eyes.
It is also important to provide your pet with a balanced diet that is appropriate for its age, size and routine. Always keep the water fresh and clean and clean the food bowls daily.
3. Keep places clean and sanitized
Floors, rugs and carpets should be cleaned regularly, preferably with hot water and suitable cleaning products. In addition, it is also important to vacuum the rooms to remove hair and dust, thus eliminating any traces of parasite eggs from the environment.
Disinfection is another “key” care. Disinfect surfaces with specific products, such as 70% alcohol or disinfectant solutions specifically for pets. Pay special attention to the places where animals spend the most time, such as beds, food bowls and toys.
Cat owners need to pay special attention to the litter box. It should be cleaned and disinfected daily, with the litter changed frequently.
4. Take your pet to the vet regularly
Regular veterinary check-ups are important for early detection of diseases. Your veterinarian will perform regular physical examinations and may order additional tests. This can detect diseases without symptoms, such as leishmaniasis and leptospirosis. This allows for early treatment, reducing the risk of transmission.
The professional will also be able to provide guidance on basic hygiene, nutrition and control of zoonoses, fleas and ticks.
5. Follow the vaccination and deworming schedule
Keep your pet’s vaccination and deworming schedules up to date, as this is the best way to protect them from zoonoses. As a result, with your pet protected, the whole family will also be better protected.
How do zoonoses pass from animals to people?
Zoonoses can be transmitted from animals to humans in different ways: through direct contact, bites, scratches, licks , contact with vectors, contaminated environments and food, and inhalation.
People with weakened immune systems, such as the elderly, children, pregnant women and people with chronic diseases, are more susceptible to contracting zoonoses. In addition, poor personal and environmental hygiene significantly increases the risk of disease transmission.
As you can see, keeping your pets’ vaccinations up to date and maintaining proper hygiene in the environment and animals are some preventive measures against zoonoses and protecting the health of humans and pets.
By putting these tips into practice, you will significantly reduce the risk of disease transmission in your home. Consequently, this helps prevent zoonoses. In addition, it minimizes the chances of serious complications, which in turn can cause irreversible damage to the health of your pets and your family.
