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Always wash your hands after touching puppies, dogs, and their poop. Take your dog to the vet for regular check-ups.
By the CDC
Puppies and dogs can carry Campylobacter, a germ that can make people sick. Follow the steps below to prevent illness.
Always wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after touching your puppy or dog, after handling their food, and after cleaning up after them.
- Adults should supervise handwashing for young children.
- If soap and water are not readily available, use hand sanitizer until you are able to wash your hands with soap and water.
- Use disposable gloves to clean up after your puppy or dog, and wash your hands afterwards. Clean up any urine (pee), feces (poop), or vomit in the house immediately. Then disinfect the area using a water and bleach solution.
- Don’t let pets lick around your mouth and face.
- Don’t let pets lick your open wound or areas with broken skin.
- Take your dog to the veterinarian regularly to keep it healthy and to help prevent the spread of disease.
Within a few days after getting a new puppy or dog, take it to the veterinarian for a health check-up.
- When choosing a pet, pick a puppy or dog that is bright, alert, and playful.
- Signs of illness include appearing lethargic (sluggish or tired), not eating, having diarrhea, and breathing abnormally. However, even a dog that appears healthy can spread germs to people and other animals.
- If your dog becomes sick or dies soon after purchase or adoption, take your dog to the veterinarian promptly and inform the pet store, breeder, or rescue organization about the pet’s illness or death. Thoroughly clean the area occupied by your pet by using a water and bleach solution.
- If your dog dies, consider waiting at least a few weeks before purchasing or adopting another pet.
