- Never play with an animal you don't know. It may be covered in germs, which could make you or your family ill.

- It is great to have a pet in the home, but don't forget to bath it (unless it's a fish...) and regularly clean feeding bowls, litter trays, toys and personal objects to prevent germs from spreading.

- When playing with an animal, even your own, always wash your hands afterwards!

- Some people are more sensitive to allergens carried by animals: the sick, the elderly, pregnant women and babies.