One of the most common difficulties people with HIV/AIDS encounter is deciding whether to have or keep a pet. Though individuals with healthy immune systems do not usually consider caring for animals risky, HIV/AIDS patients have a higher chance of picking up life-threatening illnesses from bites, scratches, and cleaning responsibilities.

Illnesses from pets can result in a variety of symptoms, including severe diarrhea, brain infections, and skin lesions, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Caring for a pet can be a gratifying experience for individuals with HIV/AIDS…