Is It Dangerous To Sleep Next To Your Pet?

It's safe to say that U.S. households own a lot of pets. According to the American Veterinary Medical Associaton (AVMA), there are an average of 2.1 cats and approximately 1.6 dogs per household. The majority of pet owners, moreover, view their furry friend as a member of the family. With that in mind, it's important to keep everyone healthy. What are some of pet care tips that you don't know about?

Your Pet Can Give You The Plague
Allowing your cat or dog to sleep in your bed can actually be dangerous, The Daily Mail reveals. "Among the more serious medical problems animal lovers risk by snuggling up to their pets are chagas disease, which can cause life-threatening heart and digestive system disorders," the publication writes. "A nine-year-old boy from Arizona even caught the plague because he slept with his flea-infested cat."

There's A Reason Your Dog Is Dragging His Butt On The Floor
There are a few explanations for this relatively common behavior. First, veterinarian technicians and puppy day cares reveal this may be entirely commonplace. It is one way dogs spread their scent. (You'll know it is a harmless gesture if they also rub their paws on the floor.) It may also be a sign of a more serious -- and slightly more disgusting -- problem. Dogs will do this if their anal glands are infected or blocked as well.

You Can Relieve Your Cat's Vet-Related Anxiety
Is your cat completely on edge when you introduce him or her to veterinarian technicians or veterinarian assistants? There is a better way. Animal Planet and local veterinarians recommend getting cats used to the car ride by taking short trips and easing stress at the vet by remaining calm (cats will pick up on your body language!), bringing a towel or blanket with a familiar scent from home, or using a calming pheromone spray.

There are plenty of ways to help your pet live a long, happy, and healthy life. Keep everyone healthy by letting your cat or dog sleep near the bed, not on it. When it is time to take pets to the vet or even the emergency animal hospital (cats usually visit 1.6 times per year!), make sure to remain as calm as possible.