Most of the time, animals are a source of joy and love. While they are typically amazing, they can pose risks too by transmitting infectious diseases to humans. On this course, Dr. J Tischendorf talks about Zoonotic disease – or simply infectious diseases that may be transmitted between animals and humans.

Dr. J Tischendorf is a wildlife biologist, veterinarian, author, certified animal cruelty investigator, and the founder and director of  American Ecological Research Institute (—AERIE). He conducts field research on different types of animals and conducts training programs related to animal care and control.

This webinar will provide an overview of zoonotic disease, its types, transmission, risk factors and preventive measures. Specifics covered on this session include:

• Understanding zoonotic disease – what it is and the extent of its impact based on statistics.
• The One Health movement that proposes the links between human, animal and environmental health.
• How human’s efforts to establish a more organized and sustainable community through agriculture gave rise to zoonotic diseases.
• Venues where zoonotic diseases are likely to incubate and be pervasive.
• The various infectious diseases present in our world today caused and aggravated by the ballooning human population, encroachment on the environment, climatic warming and other factors.
• The implications of zoonotic disease from lawsuits in the workplace to death, and the confounding factors that allow these to spread.
• The different major infectious agents/pathogens that transmit infectious diseases.
• The different transmission and infection routes by which the pathogens end up in humans’ bodily systems
• Recognizing the occupational risks in the field of animal care and control, specifically of exposure to zoonotic disease.
• Cases around the world that exhibit humans afflicted by zoonotic diseases.
• Understanding the concept of antimicrobial resistance and how it impacts the ability to treat infections.
• Stressing the importance of vaccines to prevent infectious diseases and complications.
• An overview of the most common vectors of zoonotic diseases and the infectious diseases themselves.
• A look into the preventive measures to take including what to include in one’s Personal Protective Equipment, the antimicrobial disinfectants available, and specific highly recommended products to use.
• The 6 key behaviors and best practices to avoid transmission and contracting of zoonotic diseases.
• Questions raised by the audience concerned:
  • The meaning of pathogens and contagion.
  • The highest risk diseases to focus on in a disaster sheltering environment.
  • The role climate change plays in the transmission of zoonotic diseases.
  • Protecting one’s self from infectious diseases when traveling.
  • The typical airborne zoonotic diseases present in enclosed puppy mills.
  • The strains of distemper found in New England and brought by dogs from North Korea.
  • Diseases from open-air markets in Asia.
  • The agency responsible for screening infectious diseases from imported animals.
  • Most common infection to be wary of in the animal care and control profession.

Audience Comments

• “Being made aware of the unknown; also bring to light the need for better protective equipment for employees.” — Luther
• “Very insightful and a good reminder to practice good PPE.” — Cynthia
• “From a Risk Management perspective, the information presented in this webinar is rather icky, but priceless. Best to be aware than to be dumbfounded when an incident arises. Excellent presentation.” — Jacalyn
• “It’s alarming how many diseases are caused by zoonotic pathogens that you don’t think about on a regular basis!” — Judith
• “Better understanding on what to look for in animal transmitted diseases.” — Leigh
• “Zoonotic diseases are a reality of life, and we must continue being vigilant in our response and prevention efforts! Thank you.  I feel the presenter knew his stuff and was effective in reaching us.” — Mary

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This webinar has been certified by the National Animal Care & Control Association and is approved for 1 Continuing Education Unit. Please refer to your NACA membership portal for current CEU submission process. Current NACA Members who attend the live presentation or watch the recording will be able to download a jointly issued attendance certificate that includes the National Animal Care & Control Association logo. Visit the NACA training page for a complete list of future trainings.