Lagos, Nigeria — August 17, 2025 | Veterinary specialists have advised pet owners to take routine health checks seriously as part of efforts to curb infections that could spread from animals to humans.
The experts explained that pets are vulnerable to several diseases, some of which are zoonotic, meaning they can be transmitted to people. They stressed that preventive measures such as regular veterinary visits, vaccinations, deworming, and good hygiene practices are critical to ensuring both pet safety and public health.
According to them, early detection of illnesses through proper screening helps prevent minor health issues in pets from escalating into severe conditions, while also reducing the risk of household and community-wide infections.
They cautioned that neglecting animal health could expose families to dangerous diseases, including rabies, ringworm, and other bacterial or parasitic infections.
The veterinarians urged owners to embrace a culture of preventive care, noting that responsible pet ownership goes beyond providing food and shelter. They emphasized that consistent medical attention and environmental cleanliness remain vital to safeguarding human and animal well-being.