However, where animal allergens are contributing to persistent
and severe asthma, the best course of action may be to find a
new home for your pets. But even if your pet doesn't have any
fur, there are still risks ... With animal hair a common
allergen, there may be a temptation to move away altogether from
mammals as pets. A common choice therefore might have been to
opt for a tortoise, lizard, or snake. However, these exotic
reptilian pets also pose a health hazard, namely the threat of
salmonellosis. Salmonellosis is an infective disease and can be
transmitted from more conventional pets such as dogs and cats.
With reptiles, the salmonella bacteria can be transmitted
directly from their skin and can cause a range of nasty symptoms
including vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and dehydration. Some
simple precautions can minimize the risk of infection. For
example, it is recommended that reptile owners wash their hands
following contact, and that they don't allow children to put the
reptiles in their mouth or kiss t