How clean are pets?How can I get my cat to clean himself?How do you clean poop out of a long hair cat's fur?Can furry pets get sunburn?How to clean (disinfect) my dog everyday after walk?Keeping tools clean with clumping cat litterHow to clean water bottles and nipples?Kitten's fur clumpy after vet used solution to clean ears?How to clean/wash litter box that had clay litter?Are crows good pets?Can yawning be transmitted across species by pets?

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How clean are pets?


How can I get my cat to clean himself?How do you clean poop out of a long hair cat's fur?Can furry pets get sunburn?How to clean (disinfect) my dog everyday after walk?Keeping tools clean with clumping cat litterHow to clean water bottles and nipples?Kitten's fur clumpy after vet used solution to clean ears?How to clean/wash litter box that had clay litter?Are crows good pets?Can yawning be transmitted across species by pets?






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2















I am troubled and afraid of pets because of hygiene reasons but almost everyone is telling me I should not consider hygiene as a reason to avoid them and be appaled.



I am a person that loves hygiene. I dislike and avoid physical contact with humans when dirty and/or sweaty. I must shower at least once a day or else I have subconscious trouble sleeping(even if I have not left my house all day). I regurarly bathe twice or thrice. I enjoy the feeling of brushing my teeth even with a 2 minutes timer I activate the tooth-brush twice or thrice. I brush my teeth more than 3 times a day. I floss my teeth even more. I need to change my pajamas every week. My bedsheet, pillowcase, matress-case, my towels(I have 3 of them face,body,thighs), my wash-cloths(3 of them) are washed every 10 days. I use at my 22 of age(I am a young male) baby wipes every time I use the toilet.



How clean are pets by human hygiene and human medicine standards. Can(I just need a moderate possibility of 3% or so, so as to brand them dirty) a human not allergic to them get moderately sick because of contact with their dirt, mud, dust, hair, saliva, tears, sweat, bacteria, archaea, microzoa, parasites, fungi, feces, urine , sebum, mucus? I am obviously not going to play with their secretions or disconsider washing my hands after cleaning their mess, playing with them and/or before eating, brushing my teeth. But I can neither see unicellular organisms(baring fungi colonies, super-organisms) or just lock them unless I am playing with them. They might jump into my bed, lick my face, lie besides me. They do not take baths absolutely every single day. They do not clean themselves up after sh*tting. They have hair that gets dirty. And they do not wear clothes, wash their hands often.



I have had my fair share of health burdens.



I am a cancer patient (Pilomyxoid Astrocytoma in the Pons of the Brainstem, I have right eye extremely blurry vision after scaring of a corneal ulcer due to sterile, exposure,friction ceratitis(corneopathy) because my right lacrimal gland does not produce tears. Right sided absolute cofosis. And paresis or paralysis of several nerves. My left side vision and hearing are not that much affected. I have complex partial epilepsy due to cancer.



To repeat my question.



How clean are pets by human hygiene standards can a human not allergic to them get moderately sick because of contact with their dirt, mud, dust, hair, saliva, tears, sweat, bacteria, archaea, microzoa, parasites, fungi, feces, urine , sebum, mucus?










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    2















    I am troubled and afraid of pets because of hygiene reasons but almost everyone is telling me I should not consider hygiene as a reason to avoid them and be appaled.



    I am a person that loves hygiene. I dislike and avoid physical contact with humans when dirty and/or sweaty. I must shower at least once a day or else I have subconscious trouble sleeping(even if I have not left my house all day). I regurarly bathe twice or thrice. I enjoy the feeling of brushing my teeth even with a 2 minutes timer I activate the tooth-brush twice or thrice. I brush my teeth more than 3 times a day. I floss my teeth even more. I need to change my pajamas every week. My bedsheet, pillowcase, matress-case, my towels(I have 3 of them face,body,thighs), my wash-cloths(3 of them) are washed every 10 days. I use at my 22 of age(I am a young male) baby wipes every time I use the toilet.



    How clean are pets by human hygiene and human medicine standards. Can(I just need a moderate possibility of 3% or so, so as to brand them dirty) a human not allergic to them get moderately sick because of contact with their dirt, mud, dust, hair, saliva, tears, sweat, bacteria, archaea, microzoa, parasites, fungi, feces, urine , sebum, mucus? I am obviously not going to play with their secretions or disconsider washing my hands after cleaning their mess, playing with them and/or before eating, brushing my teeth. But I can neither see unicellular organisms(baring fungi colonies, super-organisms) or just lock them unless I am playing with them. They might jump into my bed, lick my face, lie besides me. They do not take baths absolutely every single day. They do not clean themselves up after sh*tting. They have hair that gets dirty. And they do not wear clothes, wash their hands often.



    I have had my fair share of health burdens.



    I am a cancer patient (Pilomyxoid Astrocytoma in the Pons of the Brainstem, I have right eye extremely blurry vision after scaring of a corneal ulcer due to sterile, exposure,friction ceratitis(corneopathy) because my right lacrimal gland does not produce tears. Right sided absolute cofosis. And paresis or paralysis of several nerves. My left side vision and hearing are not that much affected. I have complex partial epilepsy due to cancer.



    To repeat my question.



    How clean are pets by human hygiene standards can a human not allergic to them get moderately sick because of contact with their dirt, mud, dust, hair, saliva, tears, sweat, bacteria, archaea, microzoa, parasites, fungi, feces, urine , sebum, mucus?










    share|improve this question







    New contributor



    George Ntoulos is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
    Check out our Code of Conduct.























      2












      2








      2








      I am troubled and afraid of pets because of hygiene reasons but almost everyone is telling me I should not consider hygiene as a reason to avoid them and be appaled.



      I am a person that loves hygiene. I dislike and avoid physical contact with humans when dirty and/or sweaty. I must shower at least once a day or else I have subconscious trouble sleeping(even if I have not left my house all day). I regurarly bathe twice or thrice. I enjoy the feeling of brushing my teeth even with a 2 minutes timer I activate the tooth-brush twice or thrice. I brush my teeth more than 3 times a day. I floss my teeth even more. I need to change my pajamas every week. My bedsheet, pillowcase, matress-case, my towels(I have 3 of them face,body,thighs), my wash-cloths(3 of them) are washed every 10 days. I use at my 22 of age(I am a young male) baby wipes every time I use the toilet.



      How clean are pets by human hygiene and human medicine standards. Can(I just need a moderate possibility of 3% or so, so as to brand them dirty) a human not allergic to them get moderately sick because of contact with their dirt, mud, dust, hair, saliva, tears, sweat, bacteria, archaea, microzoa, parasites, fungi, feces, urine , sebum, mucus? I am obviously not going to play with their secretions or disconsider washing my hands after cleaning their mess, playing with them and/or before eating, brushing my teeth. But I can neither see unicellular organisms(baring fungi colonies, super-organisms) or just lock them unless I am playing with them. They might jump into my bed, lick my face, lie besides me. They do not take baths absolutely every single day. They do not clean themselves up after sh*tting. They have hair that gets dirty. And they do not wear clothes, wash their hands often.



      I have had my fair share of health burdens.



      I am a cancer patient (Pilomyxoid Astrocytoma in the Pons of the Brainstem, I have right eye extremely blurry vision after scaring of a corneal ulcer due to sterile, exposure,friction ceratitis(corneopathy) because my right lacrimal gland does not produce tears. Right sided absolute cofosis. And paresis or paralysis of several nerves. My left side vision and hearing are not that much affected. I have complex partial epilepsy due to cancer.



      To repeat my question.



      How clean are pets by human hygiene standards can a human not allergic to them get moderately sick because of contact with their dirt, mud, dust, hair, saliva, tears, sweat, bacteria, archaea, microzoa, parasites, fungi, feces, urine , sebum, mucus?










      share|improve this question







      New contributor



      George Ntoulos is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
      Check out our Code of Conduct.











      I am troubled and afraid of pets because of hygiene reasons but almost everyone is telling me I should not consider hygiene as a reason to avoid them and be appaled.



      I am a person that loves hygiene. I dislike and avoid physical contact with humans when dirty and/or sweaty. I must shower at least once a day or else I have subconscious trouble sleeping(even if I have not left my house all day). I regurarly bathe twice or thrice. I enjoy the feeling of brushing my teeth even with a 2 minutes timer I activate the tooth-brush twice or thrice. I brush my teeth more than 3 times a day. I floss my teeth even more. I need to change my pajamas every week. My bedsheet, pillowcase, matress-case, my towels(I have 3 of them face,body,thighs), my wash-cloths(3 of them) are washed every 10 days. I use at my 22 of age(I am a young male) baby wipes every time I use the toilet.



      How clean are pets by human hygiene and human medicine standards. Can(I just need a moderate possibility of 3% or so, so as to brand them dirty) a human not allergic to them get moderately sick because of contact with their dirt, mud, dust, hair, saliva, tears, sweat, bacteria, archaea, microzoa, parasites, fungi, feces, urine , sebum, mucus? I am obviously not going to play with their secretions or disconsider washing my hands after cleaning their mess, playing with them and/or before eating, brushing my teeth. But I can neither see unicellular organisms(baring fungi colonies, super-organisms) or just lock them unless I am playing with them. They might jump into my bed, lick my face, lie besides me. They do not take baths absolutely every single day. They do not clean themselves up after sh*tting. They have hair that gets dirty. And they do not wear clothes, wash their hands often.



      I have had my fair share of health burdens.



      I am a cancer patient (Pilomyxoid Astrocytoma in the Pons of the Brainstem, I have right eye extremely blurry vision after scaring of a corneal ulcer due to sterile, exposure,friction ceratitis(corneopathy) because my right lacrimal gland does not produce tears. Right sided absolute cofosis. And paresis or paralysis of several nerves. My left side vision and hearing are not that much affected. I have complex partial epilepsy due to cancer.



      To repeat my question.



      How clean are pets by human hygiene standards can a human not allergic to them get moderately sick because of contact with their dirt, mud, dust, hair, saliva, tears, sweat, bacteria, archaea, microzoa, parasites, fungi, feces, urine , sebum, mucus?







      training toilet-training safety diseases grooming






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      asked 10 hours ago









      George NtoulosGeorge Ntoulos

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          3 Answers
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          As a cancer patient, your risk may be higher than another person's due to the possibility of being immunocompromised. I would consult with your doctor to get a better assessment as to the risk. Immunocompromised people can own pets safely, but they must take much more precaution, and therefore such a person might not consider pet ownership to be worth the trouble. For instance, such a person should wash their hands every time they handle the pet, and they should not be the person that cleans up the pet's waste.



          In the more general case, there is some risk of cross species infection, but it's fairly low if you take normal levels of precaution as you mentioned: washing hands, especially after handling waste, vaccinations, and so forth. The biggest risk is in handling their waste, which can spread various parasites and bacteria.



          I would not recommend pet ownership to someone who is very squicked by uncleanliness as the reality is that pets are messy. You'll very likely touch them without noticing they just licked themselves, they'll sneak up in the kitchen counter with their dirty feet and rears, they'll drool, they'll vomit and have accidents, maybe in the worst places. These types of things will definitely happen if you adopt a pet. So even if it is true that you can live a healthy life with pets if you take the proper precautions, it is perfectly fine to make the judgement that a pet just doesn't fit into your clean lifestyle.






          share|improve this answer

























          • Fortunately I am not immunocompromised at least I did never take any drugs to suppress my immune system and it never was an issue to test just how well my immune system works. Besides my cancer related problems(of which symptoms only started at the age of 11-12) I only got sick once every 2-3 years. Maybe because of my apparent "iron" health I suffered so much(the diagnosis came at 16 years of age while my aunt is a neurologist and often called me an hypochondriac). Temozolomide was fortunately not administered. But my question was how clean. There is some risk but it's fairly low. How low? 1%

            – George Ntoulos
            7 hours ago











          • I don't know of such a statistic, and to be honest, I'm not sure it's actually possible to calculate such a statistic. But it's definitely not zero, anyways.

            – Kai
            7 hours ago











          • We can use aproximation. Do you subjectively as Kai(the physical entity, the homo sapiens behind the internet persona) think the risk is less than 3%? How much do you subjectively think it is?

            – George Ntoulos
            7 hours ago


















          1
















          If you had a choice between a cat and a dog, go for the dog as cats that are allowed to roam outside pick up toxoplasmosis which can infect human brains. And the condition is untreatable.



          Dogs are man's best friend since we co-evolved with them. Having some germs around is healthy as it challenges our immune systems. An unchallenged immune system leads to immune dysfunction though probably not cancer.



          And to forestall any issues make sure the dog is taught bite inhibition, and gets seen by the vet regularly.






          share|improve this answer

























          • Toxoplasmosis isn't actually harmful to most people. The exceptions are pregnant women and immunocompromised people. I'm not sure how treatable toxoplasmosis is of you fit into one of those groups, but there are drugs that are prescribed for it.

            – Kai
            41 mins ago











          • +1 for "Having some germs around is healthy as it challenges our immune systems." As much as we humans like things to be clean, research shows it leads to all sorts of things, including (potentially) the massive increase in allergies nowadays.

            – Redwolf Programs
            13 mins ago


















          0
















          I try to answer based on dogs, and in general, not considering possible extra hygiene needs caused by your health situation:



          Surprise, surprise, dogs don't "take baths", but it is up to the owners to "help them! [Yes, esp. cats take care of themselves to some extent, though]. "Common sense" works here. I love my dogs "too much", and try to take care of their hygiene, but, while I know many people do, I have never, will never, and do not recommend anyone to:
          1. Kiss their pets
          2. Eat / prepare food by bare hands after touching the pets, without washing ones hands first



          My experience from many vets, who supposedly know better, suggest that I may be exaggerating, though. When getting vaccinations for my dogs, I have seen vets, after having touched the animal, grabbing the "cap" of an injection needle, then putting the cap [with the needle inside it] into his mouth to later allow him to conveniently pull out the needle from the cap using one hand, while holding the animal with the other one.



          p.s. If I understood your 1st sentence correctly, someone may be pressuring you to interact with [his/her?] pets. If, so, this is obviously inconsiderate behavior, and I feel bad if you have been exposed to such!






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          • The problem is not simply pressuring me to interact with their pets. I am having a meal in their house and they do not wash their hands and my disgust is apparent in my face. I do not like pets near me. I simply cannot stop myself from showing my aversion with face expressions and body language. I lean the other way. I even leave the room. I avoid contact with the people so as to avoid their pets. Dog owners do bathe the cynic/canine friends. I do not know any veterinarian who proclaims DAILY(absolutely each and every day) baths are safe for PETS.

            – George Ntoulos
            8 hours ago











          • Human hygiene does not stop by taking a single bath each day. We brush our teeth, floss, wipe our buttocks(at least with toilet paper), we use clothes to absorb sweat and dirt, we do not have nearly as much clingy hair.

            – George Ntoulos
            8 hours ago











          • But the question was How not If. Depending on ones' standards everything is clean.

            – George Ntoulos
            8 hours ago






          • 1





            If they aren't washing their hands before preparing or serving food, then that's poor food safety, and you have every right to object whether or not they have pets. However, if your find yourself avoiding people because they own pets, and you are squicked even being in the same room for fear they are being unclean, that honestly sounds like a compulsion that is negatively impacting your interpersonal relationships, and maybe you should consider trying to address it somehow.

            – Kai
            7 hours ago













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          3 Answers
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          3 Answers
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          As a cancer patient, your risk may be higher than another person's due to the possibility of being immunocompromised. I would consult with your doctor to get a better assessment as to the risk. Immunocompromised people can own pets safely, but they must take much more precaution, and therefore such a person might not consider pet ownership to be worth the trouble. For instance, such a person should wash their hands every time they handle the pet, and they should not be the person that cleans up the pet's waste.



          In the more general case, there is some risk of cross species infection, but it's fairly low if you take normal levels of precaution as you mentioned: washing hands, especially after handling waste, vaccinations, and so forth. The biggest risk is in handling their waste, which can spread various parasites and bacteria.



          I would not recommend pet ownership to someone who is very squicked by uncleanliness as the reality is that pets are messy. You'll very likely touch them without noticing they just licked themselves, they'll sneak up in the kitchen counter with their dirty feet and rears, they'll drool, they'll vomit and have accidents, maybe in the worst places. These types of things will definitely happen if you adopt a pet. So even if it is true that you can live a healthy life with pets if you take the proper precautions, it is perfectly fine to make the judgement that a pet just doesn't fit into your clean lifestyle.






          share|improve this answer

























          • Fortunately I am not immunocompromised at least I did never take any drugs to suppress my immune system and it never was an issue to test just how well my immune system works. Besides my cancer related problems(of which symptoms only started at the age of 11-12) I only got sick once every 2-3 years. Maybe because of my apparent "iron" health I suffered so much(the diagnosis came at 16 years of age while my aunt is a neurologist and often called me an hypochondriac). Temozolomide was fortunately not administered. But my question was how clean. There is some risk but it's fairly low. How low? 1%

            – George Ntoulos
            7 hours ago











          • I don't know of such a statistic, and to be honest, I'm not sure it's actually possible to calculate such a statistic. But it's definitely not zero, anyways.

            – Kai
            7 hours ago











          • We can use aproximation. Do you subjectively as Kai(the physical entity, the homo sapiens behind the internet persona) think the risk is less than 3%? How much do you subjectively think it is?

            – George Ntoulos
            7 hours ago















          3
















          As a cancer patient, your risk may be higher than another person's due to the possibility of being immunocompromised. I would consult with your doctor to get a better assessment as to the risk. Immunocompromised people can own pets safely, but they must take much more precaution, and therefore such a person might not consider pet ownership to be worth the trouble. For instance, such a person should wash their hands every time they handle the pet, and they should not be the person that cleans up the pet's waste.



          In the more general case, there is some risk of cross species infection, but it's fairly low if you take normal levels of precaution as you mentioned: washing hands, especially after handling waste, vaccinations, and so forth. The biggest risk is in handling their waste, which can spread various parasites and bacteria.



          I would not recommend pet ownership to someone who is very squicked by uncleanliness as the reality is that pets are messy. You'll very likely touch them without noticing they just licked themselves, they'll sneak up in the kitchen counter with their dirty feet and rears, they'll drool, they'll vomit and have accidents, maybe in the worst places. These types of things will definitely happen if you adopt a pet. So even if it is true that you can live a healthy life with pets if you take the proper precautions, it is perfectly fine to make the judgement that a pet just doesn't fit into your clean lifestyle.






          share|improve this answer

























          • Fortunately I am not immunocompromised at least I did never take any drugs to suppress my immune system and it never was an issue to test just how well my immune system works. Besides my cancer related problems(of which symptoms only started at the age of 11-12) I only got sick once every 2-3 years. Maybe because of my apparent "iron" health I suffered so much(the diagnosis came at 16 years of age while my aunt is a neurologist and often called me an hypochondriac). Temozolomide was fortunately not administered. But my question was how clean. There is some risk but it's fairly low. How low? 1%

            – George Ntoulos
            7 hours ago











          • I don't know of such a statistic, and to be honest, I'm not sure it's actually possible to calculate such a statistic. But it's definitely not zero, anyways.

            – Kai
            7 hours ago











          • We can use aproximation. Do you subjectively as Kai(the physical entity, the homo sapiens behind the internet persona) think the risk is less than 3%? How much do you subjectively think it is?

            – George Ntoulos
            7 hours ago













          3














          3










          3









          As a cancer patient, your risk may be higher than another person's due to the possibility of being immunocompromised. I would consult with your doctor to get a better assessment as to the risk. Immunocompromised people can own pets safely, but they must take much more precaution, and therefore such a person might not consider pet ownership to be worth the trouble. For instance, such a person should wash their hands every time they handle the pet, and they should not be the person that cleans up the pet's waste.



          In the more general case, there is some risk of cross species infection, but it's fairly low if you take normal levels of precaution as you mentioned: washing hands, especially after handling waste, vaccinations, and so forth. The biggest risk is in handling their waste, which can spread various parasites and bacteria.



          I would not recommend pet ownership to someone who is very squicked by uncleanliness as the reality is that pets are messy. You'll very likely touch them without noticing they just licked themselves, they'll sneak up in the kitchen counter with their dirty feet and rears, they'll drool, they'll vomit and have accidents, maybe in the worst places. These types of things will definitely happen if you adopt a pet. So even if it is true that you can live a healthy life with pets if you take the proper precautions, it is perfectly fine to make the judgement that a pet just doesn't fit into your clean lifestyle.






          share|improve this answer













          As a cancer patient, your risk may be higher than another person's due to the possibility of being immunocompromised. I would consult with your doctor to get a better assessment as to the risk. Immunocompromised people can own pets safely, but they must take much more precaution, and therefore such a person might not consider pet ownership to be worth the trouble. For instance, such a person should wash their hands every time they handle the pet, and they should not be the person that cleans up the pet's waste.



          In the more general case, there is some risk of cross species infection, but it's fairly low if you take normal levels of precaution as you mentioned: washing hands, especially after handling waste, vaccinations, and so forth. The biggest risk is in handling their waste, which can spread various parasites and bacteria.



          I would not recommend pet ownership to someone who is very squicked by uncleanliness as the reality is that pets are messy. You'll very likely touch them without noticing they just licked themselves, they'll sneak up in the kitchen counter with their dirty feet and rears, they'll drool, they'll vomit and have accidents, maybe in the worst places. These types of things will definitely happen if you adopt a pet. So even if it is true that you can live a healthy life with pets if you take the proper precautions, it is perfectly fine to make the judgement that a pet just doesn't fit into your clean lifestyle.







          share|improve this answer












          share|improve this answer



          share|improve this answer










          answered 7 hours ago









          KaiKai

          6,28510 silver badges22 bronze badges




          6,28510 silver badges22 bronze badges















          • Fortunately I am not immunocompromised at least I did never take any drugs to suppress my immune system and it never was an issue to test just how well my immune system works. Besides my cancer related problems(of which symptoms only started at the age of 11-12) I only got sick once every 2-3 years. Maybe because of my apparent "iron" health I suffered so much(the diagnosis came at 16 years of age while my aunt is a neurologist and often called me an hypochondriac). Temozolomide was fortunately not administered. But my question was how clean. There is some risk but it's fairly low. How low? 1%

            – George Ntoulos
            7 hours ago











          • I don't know of such a statistic, and to be honest, I'm not sure it's actually possible to calculate such a statistic. But it's definitely not zero, anyways.

            – Kai
            7 hours ago











          • We can use aproximation. Do you subjectively as Kai(the physical entity, the homo sapiens behind the internet persona) think the risk is less than 3%? How much do you subjectively think it is?

            – George Ntoulos
            7 hours ago

















          • Fortunately I am not immunocompromised at least I did never take any drugs to suppress my immune system and it never was an issue to test just how well my immune system works. Besides my cancer related problems(of which symptoms only started at the age of 11-12) I only got sick once every 2-3 years. Maybe because of my apparent "iron" health I suffered so much(the diagnosis came at 16 years of age while my aunt is a neurologist and often called me an hypochondriac). Temozolomide was fortunately not administered. But my question was how clean. There is some risk but it's fairly low. How low? 1%

            – George Ntoulos
            7 hours ago











          • I don't know of such a statistic, and to be honest, I'm not sure it's actually possible to calculate such a statistic. But it's definitely not zero, anyways.

            – Kai
            7 hours ago











          • We can use aproximation. Do you subjectively as Kai(the physical entity, the homo sapiens behind the internet persona) think the risk is less than 3%? How much do you subjectively think it is?

            – George Ntoulos
            7 hours ago
















          Fortunately I am not immunocompromised at least I did never take any drugs to suppress my immune system and it never was an issue to test just how well my immune system works. Besides my cancer related problems(of which symptoms only started at the age of 11-12) I only got sick once every 2-3 years. Maybe because of my apparent "iron" health I suffered so much(the diagnosis came at 16 years of age while my aunt is a neurologist and often called me an hypochondriac). Temozolomide was fortunately not administered. But my question was how clean. There is some risk but it's fairly low. How low? 1%

          – George Ntoulos
          7 hours ago





          Fortunately I am not immunocompromised at least I did never take any drugs to suppress my immune system and it never was an issue to test just how well my immune system works. Besides my cancer related problems(of which symptoms only started at the age of 11-12) I only got sick once every 2-3 years. Maybe because of my apparent "iron" health I suffered so much(the diagnosis came at 16 years of age while my aunt is a neurologist and often called me an hypochondriac). Temozolomide was fortunately not administered. But my question was how clean. There is some risk but it's fairly low. How low? 1%

          – George Ntoulos
          7 hours ago













          I don't know of such a statistic, and to be honest, I'm not sure it's actually possible to calculate such a statistic. But it's definitely not zero, anyways.

          – Kai
          7 hours ago





          I don't know of such a statistic, and to be honest, I'm not sure it's actually possible to calculate such a statistic. But it's definitely not zero, anyways.

          – Kai
          7 hours ago













          We can use aproximation. Do you subjectively as Kai(the physical entity, the homo sapiens behind the internet persona) think the risk is less than 3%? How much do you subjectively think it is?

          – George Ntoulos
          7 hours ago





          We can use aproximation. Do you subjectively as Kai(the physical entity, the homo sapiens behind the internet persona) think the risk is less than 3%? How much do you subjectively think it is?

          – George Ntoulos
          7 hours ago













          1
















          If you had a choice between a cat and a dog, go for the dog as cats that are allowed to roam outside pick up toxoplasmosis which can infect human brains. And the condition is untreatable.



          Dogs are man's best friend since we co-evolved with them. Having some germs around is healthy as it challenges our immune systems. An unchallenged immune system leads to immune dysfunction though probably not cancer.



          And to forestall any issues make sure the dog is taught bite inhibition, and gets seen by the vet regularly.






          share|improve this answer

























          • Toxoplasmosis isn't actually harmful to most people. The exceptions are pregnant women and immunocompromised people. I'm not sure how treatable toxoplasmosis is of you fit into one of those groups, but there are drugs that are prescribed for it.

            – Kai
            41 mins ago











          • +1 for "Having some germs around is healthy as it challenges our immune systems." As much as we humans like things to be clean, research shows it leads to all sorts of things, including (potentially) the massive increase in allergies nowadays.

            – Redwolf Programs
            13 mins ago















          1
















          If you had a choice between a cat and a dog, go for the dog as cats that are allowed to roam outside pick up toxoplasmosis which can infect human brains. And the condition is untreatable.



          Dogs are man's best friend since we co-evolved with them. Having some germs around is healthy as it challenges our immune systems. An unchallenged immune system leads to immune dysfunction though probably not cancer.



          And to forestall any issues make sure the dog is taught bite inhibition, and gets seen by the vet regularly.






          share|improve this answer

























          • Toxoplasmosis isn't actually harmful to most people. The exceptions are pregnant women and immunocompromised people. I'm not sure how treatable toxoplasmosis is of you fit into one of those groups, but there are drugs that are prescribed for it.

            – Kai
            41 mins ago











          • +1 for "Having some germs around is healthy as it challenges our immune systems." As much as we humans like things to be clean, research shows it leads to all sorts of things, including (potentially) the massive increase in allergies nowadays.

            – Redwolf Programs
            13 mins ago













          1














          1










          1









          If you had a choice between a cat and a dog, go for the dog as cats that are allowed to roam outside pick up toxoplasmosis which can infect human brains. And the condition is untreatable.



          Dogs are man's best friend since we co-evolved with them. Having some germs around is healthy as it challenges our immune systems. An unchallenged immune system leads to immune dysfunction though probably not cancer.



          And to forestall any issues make sure the dog is taught bite inhibition, and gets seen by the vet regularly.






          share|improve this answer













          If you had a choice between a cat and a dog, go for the dog as cats that are allowed to roam outside pick up toxoplasmosis which can infect human brains. And the condition is untreatable.



          Dogs are man's best friend since we co-evolved with them. Having some germs around is healthy as it challenges our immune systems. An unchallenged immune system leads to immune dysfunction though probably not cancer.



          And to forestall any issues make sure the dog is taught bite inhibition, and gets seen by the vet regularly.







          share|improve this answer












          share|improve this answer



          share|improve this answer










          answered 1 hour ago









          Graham ChiuGraham Chiu

          4194 silver badges10 bronze badges




          4194 silver badges10 bronze badges















          • Toxoplasmosis isn't actually harmful to most people. The exceptions are pregnant women and immunocompromised people. I'm not sure how treatable toxoplasmosis is of you fit into one of those groups, but there are drugs that are prescribed for it.

            – Kai
            41 mins ago











          • +1 for "Having some germs around is healthy as it challenges our immune systems." As much as we humans like things to be clean, research shows it leads to all sorts of things, including (potentially) the massive increase in allergies nowadays.

            – Redwolf Programs
            13 mins ago

















          • Toxoplasmosis isn't actually harmful to most people. The exceptions are pregnant women and immunocompromised people. I'm not sure how treatable toxoplasmosis is of you fit into one of those groups, but there are drugs that are prescribed for it.

            – Kai
            41 mins ago











          • +1 for "Having some germs around is healthy as it challenges our immune systems." As much as we humans like things to be clean, research shows it leads to all sorts of things, including (potentially) the massive increase in allergies nowadays.

            – Redwolf Programs
            13 mins ago
















          Toxoplasmosis isn't actually harmful to most people. The exceptions are pregnant women and immunocompromised people. I'm not sure how treatable toxoplasmosis is of you fit into one of those groups, but there are drugs that are prescribed for it.

          – Kai
          41 mins ago





          Toxoplasmosis isn't actually harmful to most people. The exceptions are pregnant women and immunocompromised people. I'm not sure how treatable toxoplasmosis is of you fit into one of those groups, but there are drugs that are prescribed for it.

          – Kai
          41 mins ago













          +1 for "Having some germs around is healthy as it challenges our immune systems." As much as we humans like things to be clean, research shows it leads to all sorts of things, including (potentially) the massive increase in allergies nowadays.

          – Redwolf Programs
          13 mins ago





          +1 for "Having some germs around is healthy as it challenges our immune systems." As much as we humans like things to be clean, research shows it leads to all sorts of things, including (potentially) the massive increase in allergies nowadays.

          – Redwolf Programs
          13 mins ago











          0
















          I try to answer based on dogs, and in general, not considering possible extra hygiene needs caused by your health situation:



          Surprise, surprise, dogs don't "take baths", but it is up to the owners to "help them! [Yes, esp. cats take care of themselves to some extent, though]. "Common sense" works here. I love my dogs "too much", and try to take care of their hygiene, but, while I know many people do, I have never, will never, and do not recommend anyone to:
          1. Kiss their pets
          2. Eat / prepare food by bare hands after touching the pets, without washing ones hands first



          My experience from many vets, who supposedly know better, suggest that I may be exaggerating, though. When getting vaccinations for my dogs, I have seen vets, after having touched the animal, grabbing the "cap" of an injection needle, then putting the cap [with the needle inside it] into his mouth to later allow him to conveniently pull out the needle from the cap using one hand, while holding the animal with the other one.



          p.s. If I understood your 1st sentence correctly, someone may be pressuring you to interact with [his/her?] pets. If, so, this is obviously inconsiderate behavior, and I feel bad if you have been exposed to such!






          share|improve this answer








          New contributor



          Tuomo is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
          Check out our Code of Conduct.





















          • The problem is not simply pressuring me to interact with their pets. I am having a meal in their house and they do not wash their hands and my disgust is apparent in my face. I do not like pets near me. I simply cannot stop myself from showing my aversion with face expressions and body language. I lean the other way. I even leave the room. I avoid contact with the people so as to avoid their pets. Dog owners do bathe the cynic/canine friends. I do not know any veterinarian who proclaims DAILY(absolutely each and every day) baths are safe for PETS.

            – George Ntoulos
            8 hours ago











          • Human hygiene does not stop by taking a single bath each day. We brush our teeth, floss, wipe our buttocks(at least with toilet paper), we use clothes to absorb sweat and dirt, we do not have nearly as much clingy hair.

            – George Ntoulos
            8 hours ago











          • But the question was How not If. Depending on ones' standards everything is clean.

            – George Ntoulos
            8 hours ago






          • 1





            If they aren't washing their hands before preparing or serving food, then that's poor food safety, and you have every right to object whether or not they have pets. However, if your find yourself avoiding people because they own pets, and you are squicked even being in the same room for fear they are being unclean, that honestly sounds like a compulsion that is negatively impacting your interpersonal relationships, and maybe you should consider trying to address it somehow.

            – Kai
            7 hours ago















          0
















          I try to answer based on dogs, and in general, not considering possible extra hygiene needs caused by your health situation:



          Surprise, surprise, dogs don't "take baths", but it is up to the owners to "help them! [Yes, esp. cats take care of themselves to some extent, though]. "Common sense" works here. I love my dogs "too much", and try to take care of their hygiene, but, while I know many people do, I have never, will never, and do not recommend anyone to:
          1. Kiss their pets
          2. Eat / prepare food by bare hands after touching the pets, without washing ones hands first



          My experience from many vets, who supposedly know better, suggest that I may be exaggerating, though. When getting vaccinations for my dogs, I have seen vets, after having touched the animal, grabbing the "cap" of an injection needle, then putting the cap [with the needle inside it] into his mouth to later allow him to conveniently pull out the needle from the cap using one hand, while holding the animal with the other one.



          p.s. If I understood your 1st sentence correctly, someone may be pressuring you to interact with [his/her?] pets. If, so, this is obviously inconsiderate behavior, and I feel bad if you have been exposed to such!






          share|improve this answer








          New contributor



          Tuomo is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
          Check out our Code of Conduct.





















          • The problem is not simply pressuring me to interact with their pets. I am having a meal in their house and they do not wash their hands and my disgust is apparent in my face. I do not like pets near me. I simply cannot stop myself from showing my aversion with face expressions and body language. I lean the other way. I even leave the room. I avoid contact with the people so as to avoid their pets. Dog owners do bathe the cynic/canine friends. I do not know any veterinarian who proclaims DAILY(absolutely each and every day) baths are safe for PETS.

            – George Ntoulos
            8 hours ago











          • Human hygiene does not stop by taking a single bath each day. We brush our teeth, floss, wipe our buttocks(at least with toilet paper), we use clothes to absorb sweat and dirt, we do not have nearly as much clingy hair.

            – George Ntoulos
            8 hours ago











          • But the question was How not If. Depending on ones' standards everything is clean.

            – George Ntoulos
            8 hours ago






          • 1





            If they aren't washing their hands before preparing or serving food, then that's poor food safety, and you have every right to object whether or not they have pets. However, if your find yourself avoiding people because they own pets, and you are squicked even being in the same room for fear they are being unclean, that honestly sounds like a compulsion that is negatively impacting your interpersonal relationships, and maybe you should consider trying to address it somehow.

            – Kai
            7 hours ago













          0














          0










          0









          I try to answer based on dogs, and in general, not considering possible extra hygiene needs caused by your health situation:



          Surprise, surprise, dogs don't "take baths", but it is up to the owners to "help them! [Yes, esp. cats take care of themselves to some extent, though]. "Common sense" works here. I love my dogs "too much", and try to take care of their hygiene, but, while I know many people do, I have never, will never, and do not recommend anyone to:
          1. Kiss their pets
          2. Eat / prepare food by bare hands after touching the pets, without washing ones hands first



          My experience from many vets, who supposedly know better, suggest that I may be exaggerating, though. When getting vaccinations for my dogs, I have seen vets, after having touched the animal, grabbing the "cap" of an injection needle, then putting the cap [with the needle inside it] into his mouth to later allow him to conveniently pull out the needle from the cap using one hand, while holding the animal with the other one.



          p.s. If I understood your 1st sentence correctly, someone may be pressuring you to interact with [his/her?] pets. If, so, this is obviously inconsiderate behavior, and I feel bad if you have been exposed to such!






          share|improve this answer








          New contributor



          Tuomo is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
          Check out our Code of Conduct.









          I try to answer based on dogs, and in general, not considering possible extra hygiene needs caused by your health situation:



          Surprise, surprise, dogs don't "take baths", but it is up to the owners to "help them! [Yes, esp. cats take care of themselves to some extent, though]. "Common sense" works here. I love my dogs "too much", and try to take care of their hygiene, but, while I know many people do, I have never, will never, and do not recommend anyone to:
          1. Kiss their pets
          2. Eat / prepare food by bare hands after touching the pets, without washing ones hands first



          My experience from many vets, who supposedly know better, suggest that I may be exaggerating, though. When getting vaccinations for my dogs, I have seen vets, after having touched the animal, grabbing the "cap" of an injection needle, then putting the cap [with the needle inside it] into his mouth to later allow him to conveniently pull out the needle from the cap using one hand, while holding the animal with the other one.



          p.s. If I understood your 1st sentence correctly, someone may be pressuring you to interact with [his/her?] pets. If, so, this is obviously inconsiderate behavior, and I feel bad if you have been exposed to such!







          share|improve this answer








          New contributor



          Tuomo is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
          Check out our Code of Conduct.








          share|improve this answer



          share|improve this answer






          New contributor



          Tuomo is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
          Check out our Code of Conduct.








          answered 9 hours ago









          TuomoTuomo

          101




          101




          New contributor



          Tuomo is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
          Check out our Code of Conduct.




          New contributor




          Tuomo is a new contributor to this site. Take care in asking for clarification, commenting, and answering.
          Check out our Code of Conduct.

















          • The problem is not simply pressuring me to interact with their pets. I am having a meal in their house and they do not wash their hands and my disgust is apparent in my face. I do not like pets near me. I simply cannot stop myself from showing my aversion with face expressions and body language. I lean the other way. I even leave the room. I avoid contact with the people so as to avoid their pets. Dog owners do bathe the cynic/canine friends. I do not know any veterinarian who proclaims DAILY(absolutely each and every day) baths are safe for PETS.

            – George Ntoulos
            8 hours ago











          • Human hygiene does not stop by taking a single bath each day. We brush our teeth, floss, wipe our buttocks(at least with toilet paper), we use clothes to absorb sweat and dirt, we do not have nearly as much clingy hair.

            – George Ntoulos
            8 hours ago











          • But the question was How not If. Depending on ones' standards everything is clean.

            – George Ntoulos
            8 hours ago






          • 1





            If they aren't washing their hands before preparing or serving food, then that's poor food safety, and you have every right to object whether or not they have pets. However, if your find yourself avoiding people because they own pets, and you are squicked even being in the same room for fear they are being unclean, that honestly sounds like a compulsion that is negatively impacting your interpersonal relationships, and maybe you should consider trying to address it somehow.

            – Kai
            7 hours ago

















          • The problem is not simply pressuring me to interact with their pets. I am having a meal in their house and they do not wash their hands and my disgust is apparent in my face. I do not like pets near me. I simply cannot stop myself from showing my aversion with face expressions and body language. I lean the other way. I even leave the room. I avoid contact with the people so as to avoid their pets. Dog owners do bathe the cynic/canine friends. I do not know any veterinarian who proclaims DAILY(absolutely each and every day) baths are safe for PETS.

            – George Ntoulos
            8 hours ago











          • Human hygiene does not stop by taking a single bath each day. We brush our teeth, floss, wipe our buttocks(at least with toilet paper), we use clothes to absorb sweat and dirt, we do not have nearly as much clingy hair.

            – George Ntoulos
            8 hours ago











          • But the question was How not If. Depending on ones' standards everything is clean.

            – George Ntoulos
            8 hours ago






          • 1





            If they aren't washing their hands before preparing or serving food, then that's poor food safety, and you have every right to object whether or not they have pets. However, if your find yourself avoiding people because they own pets, and you are squicked even being in the same room for fear they are being unclean, that honestly sounds like a compulsion that is negatively impacting your interpersonal relationships, and maybe you should consider trying to address it somehow.

            – Kai
            7 hours ago
















          The problem is not simply pressuring me to interact with their pets. I am having a meal in their house and they do not wash their hands and my disgust is apparent in my face. I do not like pets near me. I simply cannot stop myself from showing my aversion with face expressions and body language. I lean the other way. I even leave the room. I avoid contact with the people so as to avoid their pets. Dog owners do bathe the cynic/canine friends. I do not know any veterinarian who proclaims DAILY(absolutely each and every day) baths are safe for PETS.

          – George Ntoulos
          8 hours ago





          The problem is not simply pressuring me to interact with their pets. I am having a meal in their house and they do not wash their hands and my disgust is apparent in my face. I do not like pets near me. I simply cannot stop myself from showing my aversion with face expressions and body language. I lean the other way. I even leave the room. I avoid contact with the people so as to avoid their pets. Dog owners do bathe the cynic/canine friends. I do not know any veterinarian who proclaims DAILY(absolutely each and every day) baths are safe for PETS.

          – George Ntoulos
          8 hours ago













          Human hygiene does not stop by taking a single bath each day. We brush our teeth, floss, wipe our buttocks(at least with toilet paper), we use clothes to absorb sweat and dirt, we do not have nearly as much clingy hair.

          – George Ntoulos
          8 hours ago





          Human hygiene does not stop by taking a single bath each day. We brush our teeth, floss, wipe our buttocks(at least with toilet paper), we use clothes to absorb sweat and dirt, we do not have nearly as much clingy hair.

          – George Ntoulos
          8 hours ago













          But the question was How not If. Depending on ones' standards everything is clean.

          – George Ntoulos
          8 hours ago





          But the question was How not If. Depending on ones' standards everything is clean.

          – George Ntoulos
          8 hours ago




          1




          1





          If they aren't washing their hands before preparing or serving food, then that's poor food safety, and you have every right to object whether or not they have pets. However, if your find yourself avoiding people because they own pets, and you are squicked even being in the same room for fear they are being unclean, that honestly sounds like a compulsion that is negatively impacting your interpersonal relationships, and maybe you should consider trying to address it somehow.

          – Kai
          7 hours ago





          If they aren't washing their hands before preparing or serving food, then that's poor food safety, and you have every right to object whether or not they have pets. However, if your find yourself avoiding people because they own pets, and you are squicked even being in the same room for fear they are being unclean, that honestly sounds like a compulsion that is negatively impacting your interpersonal relationships, and maybe you should consider trying to address it somehow.

          – Kai
          7 hours ago











          George Ntoulos is a new contributor. Be nice, and check out our Code of Conduct.









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          George Ntoulos is a new contributor. Be nice, and check out our Code of Conduct.












          George Ntoulos is a new contributor. Be nice, and check out our Code of Conduct.











          George Ntoulos is a new contributor. Be nice, and check out our Code of Conduct.














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