The interaction of the microbial environment is often overlooked in a larger sense. Human contact with animals occurs directly through livestock, consuming animal products, keeping pets and the presence of wildlife. Dealing with animals is an essential element of existence in the environment. With advancements made for the survival of mankind, in the form of encroachment and disturbances in the anthropogenic aspects, the potential for the transmission of microflora is omnipresent. As we see an increasing interest in the role of the microbiome in human biology, we seldom disregard the relation between human and animal exposure. This can not only lead to possible transmission of diseases, but there may also be simultaneous exposure and corresponding transmission of the commensal flora of the animals. There is a surge to divulge more about human-animal interactions among different microbial populations. This may be found in different human populations or races, thereby shaping the fundamental basis of the fact that different microbiomes may be associated with a particular human population. Awareness regarding these transmission routes has always reflected on the pathogenic microbes and had a hand in zoonotic transmission. Along with them, we know that commensal microbes are also transmitted through these routes, albeit at a lower rate. © 2024 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.