One Health

In July, we observe World Zoonoses Day- an opportunity to raise awareness about zoonotic diseases. These are diseases that originate in animals but can be transmitted to humans. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that about 60% of current and 70% of new infectious diseases are zoonotic.

Zoonotic diseases don't just come from wild animals, they can also be contracted from farm animals, pets, and even mosquitos. One widely known zoonotic disease is rabies. World Zoonoses Day is celebrated in July because that is when the first rabies vaccine was administered. Zoonotic diseases can be contracted from direct contact with an infected animal or indirect contact such as contaminated soil or water.

In a one health society, we recognize that keeping our environment and the animals around us safe and healthy keeps us and our pets safe and healthy. Some steps we can take include:

• Washing your hands after interacting with animals or gardening.
• Keeping your pets up to date with their vaccines.
• Voting for policies that promote safe practices in the agriculture industry.
• Checking yourself and your kids for ticks and prevent mosquitos by discarding standing water.

Do you have any strategies for talking with pet families about the connection between human and pet health?

References:

WORLD ZOONOSES DAY - July 6, 2025 - National Today