The News:
Youngsters shouldn't own "exotic" pets
Pediatricians cite risk of disease
By Lindsey Tanner The Associated Press
Article Last Updated: 10/06/2008 07:05:16 AM MDT
CHICAGO — Warning: Young children should not keep hedgehogs as pets — or hamsters, baby chicks, lizards or turtles, for that matter — because of risks for disease. That's according to the nation's leading pediatricians group in a new report about dangers from "exotic" animals. Besides evidence that they can carry dangerous and sometimes potentially deadly germs, exotic pets may be more prone than cats and dogs to bite, scratch or claw — putting children younger than 5 particularly at risk, the report says.
The Research:
Read the research behind this story in the journal Pediatrics.
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1 comment:
I cannot agree with these recommendations! Hedgehogs make excellent home companions for people of all ages. My boy has a handsome hedgehog named Harold, who is affectionate, loyal & gives us far fewer diseases than the unkempt vulgarians that run amok at the kindergarten my son attends.
Sincerely, A Hedgehog Owner
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