What to do if you have a dog at home while pregnant

It is absolutely possible to have a dog at home while pregnant. The biggest concern for pregnant women is Toxoplasma gondii infection, which can cause miscarriage. However, as long as the dog undergoes a Toxoplasma test at the hospital during pregnancy, it can be determined whether or not the dog is infected. Dogs are only intermediate hosts for Toxoplasma, so as long as pregnant women do not come into contact with their dog's feces, feed them normally, and interact with them normally, there should be no problem.

Reasons for having a dog

There are many reasons to have a dog, which can be roughly divided into: feeling lonely and wanting a companion dog. Dogs are active and social, and having one can make your home atmosphere more lively. Raising a dog can also cultivate responsibility in humans. While dogs can accompany their owners, they also need to be cared for and concerned about by their owners. Dog owners should prepare water and food for their dogs daily, clean up their excrement, and frequently clean the house to prevent the dog from getting sick.

Can pregnant women be around dogs?

It is absolutely possible to have pets during pregnancy. When a pregnant woman lives in the house, she can take her dog to the pet hospital for a Toxoplasma test. If there is no Toxoplasma, you can raise the dog with peace of mind. If Toxoplasma is detected, just actively treat it, and there is no need for the owner to specifically send the dog away.

Precautions for raising a dog while pregnant

You can pay attention to hygiene from several aspects to prevent bacterial transmission. When cleaning your pet's feces, wear disposable gloves. If someone else is at home, it's better to have them do this job instead of the pregnant woman. When playing with pets, maintain a certain distance and give them regular baths, deworming, and vaccinations. Avoid letting your pet touch or lick your face and hands, and try not to hold them too much to avoid being knocked over and getting hurt.