Risk of salmonella to small children

[Gomugomuking]

This is a topic that comes up with many reptile and amphibians. And I know the basic answer is no matter the type of reptile amphibian or other pet, there is always a risk of contamination. The CDC directly states that any children under 5 should not be in a home with reptiles or amphibians as pets. However I am having trouble finding evidence for tree frogs namely red eyes. So I guess my question is is there a high risk in having a red eye terrarium and an 9 month old baby. I would really hate giving up my frogs but my kid comes first.

[elly]

I assume like other frogs, tree frogs can carry salmonella. You'll want to check this out with someone more experienced, but I imagine if you're compulsive about washing your hands well immediately after you've changed the water and sterilizing instruments it should be okay. I mean, raw chicken can also spread salmonella but the CDC doesn't suggest not cooking chicken when you have a baby. (I could be wrong though.) Not so sure about when the kid reaches the toddler stage and starts opening doors and licking things...

Also frogs might carry protozoa especially if they were wild caught. So that's something else to be aware of.

[Cliygh and Mia 2]

If you teach your kid healthy habits when it's old enough to understand, I'm sure it would be fine. (Just in case, not only would I baby proof the house, I would move my terrariums and pets somewhere it couldn't get to them)

[LilyPad]

The risk mostly comes from handling the animal or cleaning up their feces. Washing your hands with an antibacterial soap after any handling or cleaning will nearly eliminate the risk of passing it on to your baby. I actually wear gloves when I have to do anything with my frogs. Technically though, you're supposed to have your children wash their hands after touching any animal, cats and dogs included.

[Gomugomuking]

I agree and that's a good point, about not getting too worked up over frogs, when there's a good chance that it could come from almost anywhere else if we didn't use proper sanitation. I always use gloves too. Ever since my first female was sick. And I only ever handle them when transferring to rain chamber and back. Thanks for your input guys.