In this week’s column, homeopathic pharmacist Jamar Tejada warns of possible diseases transmitted by dogs through the mouth
Who doesn’t love being licked by their puppy? A lick is one of the ways our kitties use to show affection. There are people who love them so much that they share their bed. But is that right?
The vast majority justify it by saying that human beings are much dirtier. And I agree that we carry thousands of bacteria and even parasites, but my article is not a competition between who is more contaminated and, yes, a clarification on how the lack of care for our pets can seriously damage our health !
Diseases caused by canine saliva in humans
Dogs’ mouths are full of bacteria – an average of 400 species of microorganisms – and possess a bacterial flora that is potentially pathogenic for us humans, which can cause various diseases if the protective barrier of the skin is overcome. Animal saliva in contact with the human mouth, nose or eyes can cause intestinal infections, gastroenteritis or cholecystitis.
We know that our mouths aren’t very clean either. We have between 400 and 500 species of bacteria, as many as insects. The point is, the bacteria in our mouths aren’t the same as those in our dogs. In fact, only 15% of the species present in dog saliva also “live” in our mouth and this can be a problem.
But just like with humans, canine oral bacteria vary from puppy to puppy. After research and scientific studies, the presence of some very harmful bacteria has been noted in dog saliva. Some examples are Pasteurella multocida, associated with meningitis, Capnocytaphaga caninorsus, associated with septicemia, and Salmonella typhi, associated with salmonellosis.
Some other genera of bacteria common in dogs are Clostridium, Escherichia coli and Campylobacter. Escherichia can cause cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder), Salmonella, salmonellosis and Campylobacter, gastroenteritis (inflammation affecting the stomach and intestines).
Clostridium bacteria cause tetanus and are associated with rusty metal objects, but can also be found in dirt, sand, plants and wood.
It should be understood that these bacteria are not present in all dogs and even in those that have them, they may not cause problems. When the lick has been received away from the mouth, nose or eyes and reaches, for example, the cheeks or hands, without injury, it is unlikely to transmit disease.
In puppies, these bacteria don’t cause any problems—in fact, they help the animals clean and even heal their own wounds. The problem is when microorganisms come into contact with human mucous membranes or penetrate the skin through wounds.
People with weakened immune systems, such as the elderly or people using medications such as immunosuppressants, may be even more vulnerable to canine bacteria.
parasites
There are also parasites that can be carried by pets. Diseases such as hookworm and roundworm (caused by roundworm) are transmitted to humans through the ingestion of eggs or larvae found in contaminated soil or food. However, these agents can also come into contact with dogs when they enter and touch feces found on the street, in gardens or in yards.
The famous geographical bug (Larva migrans) is a disease caused by intestinal parasites of dogs and cats. Infected animals shed eggs in feces which develop into larvae and can penetrate human skin. YES! They penetrate! So sleeping with your puppy and kitten in bed… need I go on?
In animals, the geographic bug can cause cough, pneumonia, diarrhea, vomiting, loss of appetite, weight loss, hair loss, and anemia. In humans this does not happen, because the larva cannot go deep until it reaches the intestine, but walks under the skin forming a tortuous and reddish tunnel. The disease is more common in children. The lesions, which usually appear on the feet and buttocks, are accompanied by a lot of itching.
How to prevent?
Pets that usually walk on the street should be dewormed every three months. Anyone who doesn’t leave home can be dewormed every six months. Pet owners should also be dewormed every year.
Try to avoid walking barefoot in places frequented by cats and dogs, and cover children’s sandboxes and toys at night so that pets use the place as a bathroom. Always pick up your dog’s feces and encourage other owners to do the same.
Don’t take your pet to the beach. The eggs and larvae shed in the infected animal’s poop live longer in contact with sand or earth.
Leptospirosis
Animals infected with the bacterium leptospira interrogans, common in the urine of rats, release this bacterium through their urine, which, in contact with humans, transmits the disease. In some cases, even if vaccinated, there is a risk that the animals will become carriers of the bacterium. It penetrates through the skin (wet or wounded), through the mucous membranes (mouth, eyes, nose) and also through the ingestion of contaminated water or food. This contamination is even more common in places that suffer from flooding.
In animals, the most common symptoms are lack of appetite, vomiting, fever and brownish urine. The bacteria affect the kidneys and liver of the animal. In humans, the disease may be asymptomatic or exhibit flu-like symptoms. Suddenly starting high fever, malaise, body aches, tiredness and chills.
When the disease presents jaundice (yellowish skin), both in humans and animals, it can represent an aggravation (generally affecting 10% of patients). The disease can lead to death.
To avoid this, do not leave food in uncovered containers. Fight rats and vaccinate animals against leptospirosis every six months.
mycosis
They are caused by fungi that affect the skin, nails and fur of animals. When fungi find themselves in conditions favorable to their growth, such as very humid places, heat and low immunity, they multiply and begin to cause disease symptoms.
In humans, the lesions are rounded, reddish or whitish and itchy at the site. Dogs and cats can have lesions similar to humans, but with hair loss and usually without itching. Therefore, dry the animal well after bathing, even in the folds and between the toes.
Anger
The famous rabies is caused by a virus that attacks the brain and nerves of animals and humans, causing their death. It is transmitted through the bite or saliva of the animal.
Behavior changes, aggression, salivation (the animal drools a lot, not being able to swallow) and paralysis are some of the symptoms. Clinical signs in humans are similar to those in animals. Not all dogs or cats that salivate (drool) or are aggressive will become angry. If your pet exhibits symptoms, consult a veterinarian immediately. Prevention is the annual vaccination of your dog or cat from the age of four months.
Scabies
It is caused by mites of various species and is transmitted through direct contact with the animal. In animals, scabies manifests as thick scabs on the skin, hair loss, reddish spots, and itching. In people, scabies manifests itself as red, itchy patches on the skin. So give the animal a bath and always sanitize the place where it stays. Avoid contact if your puppy is contaminated.
And how to avoid contamination?
The best way to prevent the transmission of disease by licking is to keep animal vaccines up to date. Dogs must also take medicines that prevent worms and larvae, especially younger ones and it is recommended to avoid contact with faeces by dogs.
Another important precaution is to wash your hands with soap and water after contact with pets and, of course, it is extremely important to avoid sharing your bed and food with your pet. Also take care of your dog or cat’s oral health and avoid kissing or licking the face, especially the mucous membranes (lips, nose and eyes).
Always collect animal feces and urine, not leaving them exposed to flies and human contact. Clean the place properly and don’t forget to take your pet for regular vet appointments or when the pet shows signs of being unwell.
These tips won’t change the love between you and your pet, in fact, they will help you stay healthy so you can care for them with all your love for life!
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
