Should I call the health department or something?!
Question: I work at PetsMart, and at night and in the mornings they have us chang the towels in the bird cages and give medication to sick rodents. There are no gloves, goggles or masks
so far as I've seen. I'm mostly worried about the bird and rodent feces on my bare hands than the actual sick mice and rats. Should I call OSHA or the Health Department and annonymously report them?
Answers: I work at PetsMart, and at night and in the mornings they have us chang the towels in the bird cages and give medication to sick rodents. There are no gloves, goggles or masks
so far as I've seen. I'm mostly worried about the bird and rodent feces on my bare hands than the actual sick mice and rats. Should I call OSHA or the Health Department and annonymously report them?
According to the Center for Disease Control, pet rodents can be a source of salmonella. Both bird feces and rodent feces can carry various disease, viruses, and parasites. And, parasites (some are microscopic in the beginning stage) can even enter the body through the skin or through broken skin (and from inhaling or ingesting them).
You should at least be wearing rubber or latex gloves when you have to touch soiled towels or bedding. Wash your hands thouroughly before you accidentally touch your face or eyes, etc. Also, be careful of inhaling any airborne particles that may fly around as you change the towels.
I would call the agencies and ask about the risks of working in that environment. The most important thing is to find out what further precautions to take and find out if you have been exposed to anything that could make you sick. If the conditions are against regulations, report them.
Yes, you coulud pass it on to customers when you give change, or infect other animals.
i would call the health deportment to let them know what is going on
Yes
have you asked about them supplying disposable gloves. if they won't. i would bring my own. disposable gloves are alot cheaper than doctor bills and illness. and as always, wash hands after handling animals.
Grief this is disgusting, basic health & safety seems to be ignored by these employers.
I do hope the sick rodents are quarantined and not on sale!
Personally I would report the company annonymously. Or else this is just going to continue.
Contact the Health Department, Contact Peta. I know your concerned about your health, but you shouldnt be working at a pet store if you dont give a hoot about the animals either.