Special Concerns for Pet Owners with HIV/AIDS
In the past, individuals with HIV and/or AIDS have been told to give up their pets
for fear that their compromised immune system would place them at high risk for
zoonotic infections. The reality is that people are more likely to contract zoonotic
infections from contaminated food, water, soil, or even other people than from pets.
The HIV virus only infects humans and other primates and, therefore, cannot be
spread from or to dogs, cats, birds, or even fish.
With proper care and understanding and a healthy pet, the potential health risks of
pet companionship are minimal and the benefits may far outweigh the risks. People
living with HIV often deal with feelings of isolation, rejection, and lack of purpose.
For such people, companion animals offer purpose, a feeling of being needed, a way
to increase socialization, and a constant source of unconditional affection. When
selecting a pet, consider a pet with the temperament, energy level, and environmen-
tal needs that matches your own. An older pet may be more appropriate than a
young one. You also need to follow some simple guidelines when caring for your pet
and yourself. The precautions are designed to protect an immunocompromised per-
son from acquiring secondary infections.
Veterinary Care
■ Have your veterinarian examine your pet initially, and then at least once a
year.
■ Keep your pet up to date on annual shots and rabies vaccination.
■ Seek veterinary care immediately for sick pets.
■ Street animals that you “adopt” should be checked by a veterinarian before
bringing them into your home.
Pet Care
■ Keep your pet clean and well groomed with short, blunt toenails.
■ Keep the pet’s living and feeding areas clean.
■ Keep your cat’s litter box out of the kitchen; use a litter box liner and change
it daily.
■ Always walk your pet on a leash and minimize the pet’s contact with other
animals and garbage.
■ Cats should be kept indoors and be prevented from hunting birds and
rodents.
CHAPTER 25 ANIMAL-ASSISTED THERAPY 311
