Dr. Paul Roumeliotis, the medical officer of health and CEO of the Eastern Ontario Health Unit, provided essential safety tips for new parents who have pets at home. He warns that even well-behaved pets can pose risks to infants, advising parents to never leave their babies alone with animals. When introducing a newborn to pets, it's crucial to keep the pet in a separate area initially to prevent jealousy and potential injuries. Regular handwashing is vital for both parents and infants after interacting with pets, especially since pet food can carry harmful bacteria like salmonella. Dr. Paul also recommends avoiding washing pet dishes in the kitchen sink to maintain hygiene. Additionally, when visiting petting zoos, parents should ensure their children wash their hands after contact with animals and refrain from eating or feeding babies near animals to prevent contamination.