beardys

Question
What are the chances of catching an illness or disease from a beardy???

Answer
Hi Mary, the most common disease you can get from a reptile is Salmonella.

You are more likely to get Salmonella from a sponge on the kitchen sink or from the bathroom.

It is the same illness you get from undercooked poultry

Salmonella is also known as the "24-hour flue" or the "stomach bug"

It is dangerous for the young, elderly and others with week immune systems.

Washing your hands before and after handling him with warm soapy water up to your elbows will take care of any germs if you get it clean good enough.


I have been keeping reptiles for a long time and with the proper handling, and washing (not touching face or food) I haven't gotten sick to my knowledge from them. Mainly it's their feces you want to be careful of. When cleaning out the enclosure where rubber/disposable gloves to be sure you don't get the nasty bacteria on your hands. Even with gloves you should wash before and after (your hands not the gloves)


I hope that helps, if not let me know

Best of luck
Yexalen