Ensure good hygiene practices
Good hygiene practices are essential to reduce the risk of zoonotic disease transmission from pets to people, especially for higher risk groups:
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children
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the elderly
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pregnant women
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people with weakened immune systems
Hand washing
Hand washing is one of the best ways to stay healthy around pets and can also protect you against other diseases. Hand washing should be performed:
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After contact with pets
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After feeding your pet or handling pet food
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After handling food and water bowls and pet bedding
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After cleaning up pet faeces
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After outdoor activities
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Before eating and drinking
Dispose of Dog Faeces Promptly
Immediate collection and disposal of pet faeces will reduce contamination of the environment (e.g. backyard or park) with zoonotic organisms and parasite eggs.
Supervision of Children
Children should be supervised to minimise risk of oral exposure to contaminated material (e.g. soil and sand). Children’s sand pits should be covered when not in use.
Hand washing guide
Scan the QR code to read the NZ Ministry of Health hand washing guide
Download hand washing poster
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