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20 November 2008

Answer to Question #7631 Submitted to "Ask the Experts"

Category: Nuclear Medicine Patient Issues — Therapeutic Nuclear Medicine

The following question was answered by an expert in the appropriate field:

I am scheduled for radioactive iodine treatment for my hyperthyroid. I understand the need to take precautions to limit the exposure to others. However,I have not been able to find any information regarding exposure to pets. I have two small dogs (six pounds and 12 pounds) that are used to being close to me. Should they be removed from my home for a few days?

I recommend that you follow the same advice that I gave to another person (ATE Q 7392) regarding her cats.

I don't think that the dogs have to leave the house, unless they are so adorable that you can't help yourself from wanting to hold them for long periods of time. Your thyroid is an exposure source and so is your urine. I do not think that the radiation exposure would be a health hazard if they are sitting next to you on the couch.

Cats and dogs both clean their coats by licking, so washing your hands before petting your dogs is the best way to protect them. Good luck with your therapy.

Marcia Hartman, MS

Answer posted on 8 July 2008. The information and material posted on this Web site is intended as general reference information only. Specific facts and circumstances may alter the concepts and applications of materials and information described herein. The information provided is not a substitute for professional advice and should not be relied upon in the absence of such professional advice specific to whatever facts and circumstances are presented in any given situation. Answers are correct at the time they are posted on the Web site. Be advised that over time, some requirements could change, new data could be made available, or Internet links could change. For answers that have been posted for several months or longer, please check the current status of the posted information prior to using the responses for specific applications.