General Information

WHEN YOU LOSE MUCH OF YOUR STRENGTH OR MOBILITY, simple tasks like walking a dog or cleaning a cat's litter box can seem overwhelming. And if your immune system is weakened by HIV/AIDS, cancer, kidney or liver disease, old age, or pregnancy, you must take extra precautions to avoid disease-causing agents that any human or animal-including pets-can transmit.

BEING A PET OWNER IS NEVER EASY. While pets bring us joy and companionship on a daily basis, they also require training, veterinary care, time, love, attention, and even tolerance. Tolerance is especially necessary when a pet owner is allergic to his or her companion animal.

CONGRATULATIONS, YOU'RE EXPECTING A BABY! If your family already includes a pet, you'll need to help that first "baby" adjust to the new one you'll soon bring home. You can help your pet cope with this big change in much the same way parents help children understand that a new brother or sister will be joining the family. By following the tips below, you can ease your pet's stress, help her welcome your new baby, and ensure that your pet stays where she belongs-with you and your growing family.

YOU KNOW HOW IT GOES: The minute you turn your back, your pet decides that your new carpet is the perfect place to relieve himself. You clean and clean, but you can't get rid of that smell. What can you do?

FOR MANY KIDS, THE FAMILY PET IS their best friend-a companion who not only provides unconditional love, but also teaches them about friendship, responsibility, loyalty, and empathy. While most family pets are cats and dogs, other animals may also be appropriate for children. Rabbits, hamsters, gerbils, guinea pigs, small birds, and fish can make great family pets, for instance, as long as they receive the specialized care they need.