It recommends NOT letting your pets sleep in your bed, or lick your face.
The government scientists report some *rare cases of humans catching diseases from their pets.
Some were life-threatening such as meningitis, the plague, or parasites like hookworm.
More than 50 percent of dog owners, and about 75 percent of cat owners allow a pet in their bed.
Pet owners say the benefits of pet companionship outweigh the risks.
Amanda Lovrien, a pet owner, says, "As long as you're hygienic, and you're washing your hands and you rinse your dog, it's the best you can do."
And veterinary experts agree -
Wash your hands after handling your pets, and if you have a very young child, or person with a compromised immune system in your house, limit the close contact.
And be sure to take care of your pet's health.
