When humans infect their pets, it is referred to as a reverse zoonosis, or anthroponotic infection. It is crucial for pet lovers to understand these occurrences to keep both themselves and their pets safe. Several infectious agents including Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Salmonella, C. difficile, H. pylori, H1N1 Influenza, Human Herpesvirus 1, and MRSA (painting above) can be transmitted from humans to pets, posing serious health risks. These infections can be spread to pets through direct contact with an infected human, contaminated surfaces or objects, or respiratory droplets.

Transmission can be prevented by hand washing when handling pets, distancing from pets when sick, vaccinating pets, and regular vet checkups. Pet owners should follow CDC guidelines and veterinary advisories for best practices in preventing reverse zoonosis. Public education, integration between physicians and vets, monitoring and reporting systems, and research are key to preventing and detecting reverse zoonosis. Together, we must protect our pets from their owners as well as we protect owners from their pets.