GERMS

Germs (Rookie Readers) Germs, worms and fleas Always wash your hands after playing with a pet, and be especially careful before eating, in case any germs have got onto your fingers.
Don't let pets lick your face - they may have been licking somewhere unmentionable just before they licked you! If they do lick your face, don't panic - soap and water will get rid of any nasty germs.
Pets get worms and fleas. They need to be treated regularly to keep them healthy. Animal fleas can bite you.
Some skin diseases such as ringworm can be spread to humans from dogs and cats. [Ringworm is not really a worm, it is a skin infection caused by tinea - see our topic "Fungal infections".]
Some people can be allergic to animal hair or dander[the dry skin that rubs off pets and sticks in the animal's fur.] They might get hay fever or asthma if they get too close to some pets - see our topic "Allergies - general".


It sounds like a lot of problems, doesn't it. But if you take care, pets can be great fun and not cause any problems!