Specific guidance is necessary for protection of health with respect to exotic pets, particularly reptiles.

• UK Government (Public Health England, Department of Health and Defra) provide joint advice Reducing the risks of Salmonella infection from reptiles as they believe most reptiles should be presumed to carry Salmonella in their gut, even if they show no signs of infection.  These bacteria are readily transferred to the skin and surroundings of the reptiles.
• Salmonella can cause serious illness in people, so precautions should include:
  • careful hand washing
  • care around food and any objects in contact with reptiles

• Advice for vets is provided by Merck on management of reptiles to maintain health (including husbandry, cleaning, quarantine and record keeping), management of bacterial infections and antimicrobial use in reptiles.

• The Ornamental Aquatic Trade Association (OATA), Reptile and Exotic Pet Trade Association (REPTA), Pet Industry Federation, British Veterinary Zoological Society, Tortoise Welfare and RSPCA produce guidance, Good practice guidelines for the welfare of privately kept reptiles and amphibians.