Book excerpt: Zoonoses are infectious diseases that can be transmitted from animals (both wild and domestic) to humans. A significant number of emerging and re-emerging waterborne zoonotic pathogens have been recognised over recent decades, such as SARS, E. coli, campylobacter and cryptosporidium. This publication assesses current knowledge about waterborne zoonoses and identifies strategies and research needs for anticipating and controlling future emerging water-related diseases, in order to better protect the health of both humans and animals. It is based on the discussions of a workshop held in the United States in September 2003, which included 29 experts from 14 countries and diverse disciplines including microbiology, water epidemiology, medicine, sanitary engineering, food safety and regulatory policy.