Alex Harrison-Flaxman with her dog Bendel
For individuals navigating life after an organ transplant, the journey is often filled with emotional highs and lows. Alex Harrison-Flaxman, a kidney transplant recipient, intimately understands this emotional rollercoaster. As a content creator for pets.edu.vn and a pet enthusiast, she also recognizes the profound impact pets can have on our lives.
“Being a transplant recipient is an absolute blessing, but it doesn’t come without its challenges,” Harrison-Flaxman shares. “It’s a constant effort to stay vigilant about your health. However, having my dog, Bendel, makes the tougher moments a little easier, especially when anxiety creeps in and the future feels uncertain.”
Studies indicate that up to 63% of transplant recipients may experience depression or anxiety in the years following their transplant. This highlights why pets can be incredibly beneficial companions for transplant patients. The emotional support provided by pets can be a powerful antidote to anxiety, depression, and feelings of isolation.
Harrison-Flaxman notes that Bendel, her Cockapoo, possesses an uncanny ability to sense when she needs comfort. “He instinctively knows when to stay close and offer reassurance. Bendel truly lifts my spirits and brings joy to my days with his playful antics.”
Her experience resonates with many in the transplant community. [@SalesJourney on Instagram] shared how their dog, Louis, became a lifeline during a challenging period. “While undergoing dialysis, I felt incredibly low and struggled to maintain a positive outlook,” [@SalesJourney] recounted. “But my commitment to caring for Louis, along with his loving cuddles and our walks together, became my constant motivation.”
Bendel, a comforting Cockapoo, stays by Alex’s side during her home drug infusion.
Important Considerations for Transplant Recipients Considering Pet Ownership
The positive impact of pets on transplant recipients is undeniable. However, it’s crucial to acknowledge potential concerns that transplant patients and their families should be aware of.
A primary concern is the heightened risk of infection for individuals with suppressed immune systems, such as organ transplant recipients. These individuals are more susceptible to serious and potentially life-threatening infections, some of which are zoonotic. Zoonotic diseases are illnesses that can be transmitted from animals to humans. Dogs and cats can carry a wide range of zoonotic infections, with bites, particularly to children, being a common mode of transmission.
Maintaining a Clean Environment is Key
Given the increased susceptibility of organ transplant recipients to animal-borne diseases, preventive measures are essential when living with pets.
Experts from the American Society of Transplantation (AST) Infectious Diseases Community of Practice recommend specific hygiene routines to minimize the risk of infection from pets.
- Avoid direct contact with animal feces (stool) whenever possible. When handling feces, always use gloves and a surgical face mask.
- Thoroughly wash your hands with soap and running water after any interaction with animals or their feces.
- Ensure children’s handwashing is supervised after they have been handling animals.
- Transplant patients should avoid tasks such as cleaning bird cages and feeders, fish tanks, and cat litter boxes, especially in the early post-transplant period when immunosuppression is highest.
- Delegate the task of cleaning the cat litter box to another person on a daily basis.
- Keep cat litter boxes away from kitchens, dining areas, and other places where food is prepared or consumed.
- Keep cats indoors to reduce exposure to pathogens.
- Feed pets only high-quality commercial pet food.
- Prevent pets from drinking from toilet bowls or accessing garbage.
- Avoid contact with stray animals to prevent bites and scratches.
- Refrain from interacting with wild animals. Do not attempt to keep wild animals as pets.
- Certain animals are considered higher risk for transplant patients:
- Reptiles such as lizards, snakes, and turtles.
- Baby chicks and ducklings.
- Exotic pets including monkeys and large birds.
Furthermore, when considering getting a new pet, it’s advisable to avoid animals that are ill, strays, or very young (puppies and kittens under 6 months old). These animals are more likely to carry infections that could pose a risk to transplant recipients.
Consulting Your Transplant Team and Veterinarian
It is generally recommended that transplant recipients postpone adopting a new pet shortly after their transplant. This is due to the higher doses of immunosuppressant medications required in the initial post-transplant phase. Always discuss your individual circumstances with your transplant team before bringing a pet into your home.
If you already have a pet, maintaining their health is crucial. Ensure your pet receives regular veterinary care, including vaccinations and wellness check-ups. Plan for pet care arrangements in advance in case of hospital readmission for post-transplant treatment.
It is essential to consult with your transplant team for any health concerns related to your specific condition. This information is not intended to replace professional medical advice from your healthcare provider.
References:
- The American Journal of Transplantation: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/ajt.12121
Tags: Health, Lifestyle, Wellness
