It seems like everything around has become an enemy for our health lately with reports indicating high levels of toxins in baby bottles and prescription drugs in the water supply. Now, even our pets appear to carry toxic chemicals such as mercury stain-proof coatings and others.

The analysis made by the Washington-based Environmental Working Group, collected blood and urine samples from 35 dogs and 37 cats at Hanover Animal Hospital in Mechanicsville, Va. and found 48 industrial chemicals were present.

The analysis found high levels of numerous chemicals in dogs and cats, including chemicals used in the making of furniture, fabrics and electronics. Mercury was also detected at high levels, likely from fish used in pet food.

How did those chemicals end up in the pets' body? Well, according to the EWG, the pets likely ingested the chemicals because they live close to floors and lick the ground and their paws.

The group cites that infants and toddlers are at similar risk, since they are close to the ground and put things in their mouths.

“This study shows that our pets are susceptible to the absorption of potentially harmful chemicals from our environment just as we are. Perhaps even more troubling is that these chemicals have been found in higher levels in pets than in humans, implying potential harmful consequences for their health and well being and the need for further study,” Dr. John Billeter, the veterinarian who conducted the tests, said in his study.

Gary Richter, a veterinarian at Montclair Veterinary Hospital in Oakland expressed his concern about the chemicals’ effects on pets.

“There’s been an increase in cancer in dogs and cats and hyperthyroidism in cats. Household toxins are concerning. We hope the research community can determine if the causes are environmental,” Richter said as quoted by the San Jose Mercury News.

In fact, this study is meant to raise awareness about what pets are being exposed to and what current regulations are, Rebecca Sutton, a UC Berkeley alumna and staff scientist for the group said. “We’re hoping it’s a bit of a wake-up call for pet owners,” she added.

More important is the question how these chemicals affect people, through exposure to animal food as well as fruits and vegetables, but the report doesn’t offer an answer to it.