mypetfriends.co.uk

Parents are being warned not to buy hamsters or other exotic animals as pets because they can carry potentially deadly germs.  Exotic pets may be more prone than cats and dogs to bite and scratch, putting children younger than five particular risk.
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Salmonella is the main risk - around 11% of salmonella illnesses in children is thought to stem from contact with lizards, turtles and other reptiles.  Hamsters can also carry this bacterium, which causes severe diarrhoea, fever and stomach cramps.
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If children already have these animals, risks can be reduced by close supervision when children are handling their pets.  In addition, children should be advised to wash hands thoroughly after contact with pets, both at home and at petting zoos.
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Further details about pets suitable for children take a look at Kitty and Teddy's guide on choosing a pet for a child, in their pet care tips section of the My Pet Friends site.

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