From the July 2003 Lone Mountain Animal Hospital Newsletter in Las Vegas, "People that are immunocompromised must be cautious in pet ownership. Weakened immune systems from health issues such as cancer therapy, organ/bone marrow transplants, and HIV can place a person at risk for contracting an illness from their pet, whereas a person with a fully functional immune system would not. Pets add meaning, love, and a purpose to life. Pet ownership provides psychological benefits that can aid in preventing depression for those battling a serious illness. The risks of pet ownership should be thoughtfully discussed with one’s physician." The CDC offers more tips For People at Extra Risk.