Boom in backyard chicken coops brings salmonella risk

As if we don’t already have enough to beware of to keep us from getting sick, now health experts say we need to be cautious of our pets.

Yes, they have many benefits – studies show they can reduce our blood pressure, cholesterol levels and help us manage feelings of loneliness and depression.

But they can also carry harmful germs.

When dogs lick us, cats prowl on countertops or a child snuggles with a backyard chicken, it can be a health problem.

“Bacteria can spread from live poultry via their feces. They walk in it, peck in it and roll around in dirt, and it can get on their feathers and beaks. That’s why the CDC advises against cuddling or kissing your pet poultry,” said Sana Mujahid with Consumer Reports.

Even animals that are healthy and well taken care of can carry germs like E. coli or salmonella.

So keep your animals’ outdoor areas as tidy as possible to reduce the amount of feces they track around.

Consumer Reports says ideally, remove your shoes before you go inside!

"It’s also important to keep pets, especially cats that go in and out of a litter box, off counters and tables. If that’s not possible, at least clean those spaces before you prepare any food,” said Mujahid.

The best way to protect yourself and your family from any germs, bacteria or viruses is to wash your hands any time you’ve touched an animal, their food or bowls.

And remember that cats and dogs who spend time outside, can pick up ticks.