Pets offer companionship, a being to care for, and motivation to be your best self. For all their benefits, pets also have the potential to cause some health problems. They can carry germs that could make you sick. You may not even realize it because your pet still looks healthy. Fortunately, there are some things you can do to stay healthy while you have pets in your home.
Clean Your Home
A clean home is a lot more likely to be a sanitary, healthy home. Because some pets are prone to shedding, vacuum frequently to remove as much fur and hair as possible. Replace your furnace filter more frequently as well to preserve your indoor air quality.
Additionally, keep pet supplies away from food prep areas. Never clean them in your kitchen or bathroom sinks or in food prep areas–doing so increases the risk of spreading pet germs that could make you sick. Regularly and frequently clean up after your pet as well.
Clean and Groom Them
Keeping your pet clean is another way to preserve your health while they’re in your home. Cleaning and grooming will help keep your pet healthy, which helps keep you healthy.
Regular cleaning and grooming can help keep your pets free of fleas and ticks, especially when combined with a comprehensive prevention plan designed by a competent veterinarian. Fleas are known to carry diseases that they spread to your pests and your family. Ticks are as well.
Clean Your Hands
Washing hands was a popular topic of conversation three years ago when COVID hit hard. While the COVID crisis has largely subsided at this point, thoroughly and frequently washing your hands remains one of the best ways to keep yourself healthy, especially if you have pets in your home. Wash your hands after handling your pet (or their habitat and equipment), feeding them, cleaning up after them, taking off shoes or clothes that your pet has soiled, and before eating, drinking, or preparing food or drinks. Use soap and water as often as it’s available, though sanitizer works if you don’t have access to soap and water.
You have to make your health a priority, especially if you have a pet. Remember, your pet is counting on you to take care of them. It’s a lot harder to do that well if you’re in poor health. Take steps to stay healthy and minimize your risk of contracting a pet-borne illness so you can show up each day for both your pet and yourself.
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