As you know, your pet is susceptible to various diseases and infections. Have you ever
wondered whether or not you could potentially catch any of those illnesses from your
canine friend? It’s a scary thought. And it’s true—it is possible for dogs to transmit
certain illnesses to humans. The diseases in question are known as zoonotic diseases.
Here, a local veterinarian tells you more about zoonotic diseases and how to keep both
your dog and your family members safe.
W hat Diseases Can I Catch From My Dog?
You’ve almost certainly heard of rabies. Rabies can prove deadly in both dogs and
humans! Diseases like Ehrlichiosis, salmonella, leptospirosis, giardiasis, Lyme disease,
campylobacteriosis, brucellosis, and ringworm can also be transmitted from a pup to a
human. And while rare, it’s entirely possible for parasites like hookworms, roundworms,
tapeworms, mites, and more to be contracted from our canine pals.
Are Certain People at a Higher Risk?
Yes, certain people are at a higher risk than others are of contracting a zoonotic disease
from a dog. The group includes elderly individuals, children, pregnant women,
individuals undergoing chemotherapy or other radiation-related treatments, and anyone
who has a compromised immune system. However, most people can have pets without
worrying, assuming they follow a few basic protocols (more on that below).
It’s very important to understand that an average healthy adult is not at a high risk of
contracting an illness from their dog—it’s very unlikely assuming that the individual
practices basic hygiene. And thanks to modern veterinary methods such as vaccination
and pest-control products, the risk is even lower.
How Do I Prevent the Problem?
Make sure that you and all members of your family practice good basic hygiene when it
comes to pets. Be sure to wash your hands on a regular basis and avoid direct physical
contact with your dog’s feces. Try to wash Fido’s food and water dishes, bed, and toys
regularly so that any germs are destroyed. Finally, keep your canine companion on
year-round preventative medications to ward off fleas, ticks, and worms, and make sure
Fido is up to date on essential vaccinations to prevent disease. These basic steps all
but ensure that any zoonotic diseases won’t be transmitted to human family members.
Does your dog need vaccinations or pest-control medicine? Call today to make an
appointment.