Kids shouldn't have exotic animals as pets

Or so says a new report from the American Academy of Pediatrics. An "exotic pet" is anything that isn't a cat and dog, and includes:

• Hamsters
• Hedgehogs
• Baby chicks
• Lizards
• Turtles

These animals can spread dangerous germs, which can be especially harmful to children's developing immune systems. 11% of child salmonella cases are thought to be caused by contact with reptiles, included lizards and turtles. And germs are only half the problem. MSNBC says,

Besides evidence that they can carry dangerous and sometimes potentially deadly germs, exotic pets may be more prone than cats and dogs to bite, scratch or claw — putting children younger than 5 particularly at risk, the report says.

If you have a young child, think twice before getting an exotic pet. And make sure you do your research if getting a cat or dog too!