According to the Public Health Agency of Canada, an outbreak involving thirty-two confirmed cases of salmonellosis in six provinces is attributed to direct contact with pet hedgehogs.  Of those infected, four patients have been hospitalized.

Pet-transmitted salmonellosis usually affects children in a haome due to close contact.  The U.S. currently is experiencing an ongoing problem of salmonellosis associated with chicks obtained from small hatcheries supplying backyard farms.  In the 1970's, salmonellosis was attributed to pet turtles until interstate movement was mandated in 1975.  More recently salmonellosis within families is associated with reptiles including iguanas, snakes and lizards. 

Contaminated pet food can result in infection of conventional pets including dogs and cats that become periodic shedders creating the danger of infecting family members.