Safe Handling of Reptiles & Amphibians

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said on Monday it was investigating cases of Salmonella infections linked to contact with water frogs, including African dwarf frogs.

At PETCO, the health and wellbeing of our customers and their pets is our top priority. That’s why, in light of the recent Salmonella cases, all of our stores where we sell aquatic life and bettas are being directed to place special signs in the aquatics areas of their store to remind customers how to safely and properly handle all companion animals, particularly amphibians and reptiles.

Additionally, Care Sheets that provide specific information on the safe handling of aquatic life and the proper care for all companion animals, including reptiles and amphibians, are available to print online at PETCO.com, or by asking an associate at your local PETCO store.

We want to stress the importance of the proper and safe handling of reptiles and amphibians. Taking certain precautions will help you enjoy the company of these great companion animals, while keeping you and your family safe and healthy.

Most reptiles and amphibians commonly live in aquariums or fish tanks and pet parents typically come in direct contact with them only during care and maintenance, such as habitat cleaning. But, they do require special precautions that pet parents need to take while handling and caring for them.

Follow these simple precautions while handling any reptiles or amphibians:

• Handle amphibians as infrequently as possible.
• Always wear wet latex or nitrile gloves when you need to handle amphibians or clean their habitat; always use a net and wet gloves when moving aquatic frogs.
• Always wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after touching any amphibians or reptiles, their habitats or anything that comes in contact with them or their housing. Adults should assist young children with hand washing.
• People at increased risk for any serious infection, including salmonellosis, should avoid contact with amphibians and reptiles and their habitats. These include: children younger than 5 years old, pregnant women, elderly and people with weakened immune systems.
• Keep amphibians and reptiles out of homes with children younger than 5 years old or people with weakened immune systems.
• Do not dispose of habitat water in sinks used for food preparation or for obtaining drinking water.
• Do not bathe animals or their habitats in your kitchen sink. If bathtubs are used for these purposes, they should be thoroughly cleaned afterward. Use bleach to disinfect a tub or other place where reptile or amphibian habitats are cleaned.
• Never drink water from an amphibian’s habitat or the water in which they were transported.
• Do not allow amphibians or reptiles to roam freely through the house, especially in food preparation areas.
• Do not touch your face after handling amphibians or the contents of their habitat until you have thoroughly washed your hands with antibacterial soap and water.
• Watch for symptoms of Salmonella infection, such as diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps.  Call your health care provider if you or a family member have any of these symptoms.

If you have questions about these tips or how to handle your pet safely, ask a Companion Animal Specialist at your local PETCO store. Click here to find a store near you.