According to the dictionary, a pot–bellied pig is known to be a domestic animal.

And the word “domesticated” refers to a tamed animal: the animal accustomed to live with or near people, usually called as a pet.

According to CDC, family having children below 5 years of age should avoid amphibian type of pets; pregnant women must avoid contact with pet gnawer’s in-order to prevent contact with lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus, toxoplasmosis from cats by getting their hands washed regularly.

In the guidelines for selecting a pet, CDC recommended that HIV/AIDS infected persons should consult their veterinarian and health care provider before selecting a pet.

CDC advised that the younger people must wash their hands properly after touching the pet and before preparing, serving, eating, or drinking. Hand sanitizers should be used if running water and soap are not available for washing hands. During illness, physicians’ advice that contact with pets should be avoided. Many pets like dogs, cats, reptiles, rodents, and birds carry insects that get transferred from animals to human beings.

CDC further notified that rabies is one of the most deadly diseases that get transferred from animals to human beings. So, pets are to be vaccinated for rabies.

Pets are a part of the family. They help in getting out from the loneliness and depression, and create opportunities for exercising. Thus, regular strolling with the pet reduces the risk of high blood pressure and helps in maintaining low cholesterol and triglyceride levels.