Everybody loves dogs and people who own dogs love to hug and kiss them. They are never worried about catching any disease from their dogs. But the truth is that it is possible for people to catch a disease from their dogs.
RABIES:
You have probably heard stories about dogs that have rabies, foam at the mouth, go insane, and are ready to bite but more than likely you have never been around a rabid animal.
If you are ever bitten by a dog, the first thing that has to be done is to test the dog for rabies. This is to ensure that you do not contract the disease from the bite.
ZOONOTIC DISEASES:
Rabies is known as a Zoonotic Disease and is one of many zoonotic diseases that can be transmitted from wild or domesticated animals to human beings or vice versa.
Zoonotic is derived from the Greek word “zoon” meaning animal, and “nonos” meaning ill.
Other zoonotic diseases are:
- Fleas
- Giardia
- Hookworms
- Lyme Disease
- Ringworm
- Roundworms
- Salmonella
- Tapeworms
There are also other bacterial, fungal, and parasitic diseases that are zoonotic.
All of these diseases can be passed on to you from your dog. Even though these diseases are relatively rare, you should exercise caution when approaching strange or stray dogs including your own dog. They may look friendly and healthy but they could be carrying a parasitic or fungal disease that could be transmitted to you.
PARASITES
Even though your dog may not look ill, he could have a parasite that you are unaware of.
For instance, hookworms can be present in your dog’s feces and as a consequence could also be present in your dog’s saliva without you being aware of it.
If you allow your dog to kiss you or your child while infected, he could easily transmit the disease to you or your child.
It is very important therefore that you worm your dog whenever necessary and ensure that he gets regular check-ups.
The best solution to prevent your dog from catching any diseases that can be passed on to you and your family is to keep him healthy. Take your dog to the veterinarian regularly for check-ups and for his routine vaccinations.