If You Can Trust Your Pet Frog Who Can You Trust |
Posted: March 20, 2023 |
Back in the day, it was common for young boys to catch frogs, turtles, and small water snakes in streams and lakes and keep them as pets. As children, we didn't think about the wisdom of handling such animals. As time passed, frogs became increasingly popular pets, and people started importing and raising amphibians and frogs for sale, including the African dwarf frog, which is considered an excellent pet for children. However, amphibians and reptiles, especially the African dwarf frog, are prone to carrying salmonella. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently published a study linking several salmonella outbreaks across the United States to children handling pet amphibians and reptiles, particularly the African dwarf frog. It turns out that all reptiles and amphibians, such as snakes, turtles, frogs, lizards, alligators, and crocodiles, can potentially carry salmonella. Salmonella is typically associated with contaminated food, but it can also be present in vegetables and fruits. Therefore, we hear of lettuce or other food recalls due to detected outbreaks of the disease. Consequently, it is necessary to wash all of these items before using them, and sanitation in restaurants, food plants, and among employees is critical. A recent salmonella outbreak was traced back to an African dwarf frog farm in Madera County, California. The operator halted sales, implemented cleaning procedures, and resolved the issue, reducing the incidence of salmonella, especially among children, the elderly, and those with depressed immune systems (the most vulnerable). However, caution is still required because African dwarf frogs can live for up to 18 years, and disease-carrying frogs could still be pets in homes across the country, posing a potential threat. The risk of exposure is highest for children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. Salmonella can be transmitted not only by handling the animals but also by cleaning their cages or tanks. Water should be changed frequently and filtered correctly. Besides the aforementioned cleaning procedures, people who handle the animals or clean their tanks should not belong to the three most vulnerable categories, wear gloves, and wash thoroughly after each procedure. Additionally, if parents have any concerns or questions about pet frogs, they should contact a veterinarian who is familiar with reptiles and amphibians. Alternatively, they could consider getting a puppy for their kids.
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