ALL ANIMALS, can potentially carry zoonotic diseases including viral, bacterial, fungal, and parasitic diseases contagious to humans.  Humans may become ill after handling the pet, its bedding or fecal matter by introducing viral, bacterial, fungal and/or parasitic organisms into their eyes, mouth, skin or an open sore. In most cases these conditions are treatable, but if left untreated, or if they occur in infants, children, pregnant women, the elderly or immune-compromised individuals, the illness could be serious or (though rare) even fatal.  Young children are at higher risk because their immune systems are still developing and they are more likely than others to put their fingers or other items into their mouths.  Many pets are not suitable for children under 5 years of age. Follow these guidelines to protect your pet and your family: *   Make sure the seller guarantees good health. This should include a money-back guarantee if you discover within some specified period that your pet has signs of disease. *   Get a complete checkup from an authorized avian or exotic animal veterinarian. Do this right away if you’ve just purchased your pet. Seasoned pet owners should book appointments for yearly checkups. *   Eradicate the germs. Wash your hands after handling your pet or anything within the pet’s habitat. If soap and running water are unavailable, use hand sanitizer. For more information see the CDC Healthy Pets Healthy People website.