Common Dog Diseases Dangerous To Humans
There are several common dog diseases that you can get that are known as zoonoses. The word zoonosis is used to designate any disease transmitted from animals to humans. The best known and most feared example of a zoonosis is rabies.
Although it is possible to get diseases from dogs, the chances are slim. That said, the risk of getting a zoonosis increases if you have a compromised immune system due to a pre-existing medical condition or illness.
Examples of this are people infected with HIV or AIDS, pregnant women, patients treated with chemotherapy and elderly people.
Likewise, people with chronic diseases or congenital immune system deficiency, and those who have received organ or bone marrow transplants, are also more susceptible to contagion.
The most common and dangerous diseases in dogs
Capnocytophaga canimorsus
This bacteria lives in the saliva of cats and dogs. Although human infections are extremely rare, when C. canimorsus infects humans, it can be fatal.
It is transmitted through bites and scratches. Symptoms can include blood poisoning, breathing difficulties and meningitis.
Campylobacter jejuni
It is one of the most common causes of food poisoning. Although it is usually transmitted through undercooked meat, this bacteria is also present in the feces of cats and dogs, and can infect humans.
Brucella kennels
Canine brucellosis is transmitted by a bacterium that causes miscarriages and stillborn puppies in dogs. It is transmitted through vaginal secretions, urine and potentially saliva.
In humans, it can cause fever, fatigue, and weight loss, as well as inflammation of the liver, spleen, and lymph nodes.
Leptospira interrogans
This spiral-shaped bacteria, found in the urine of many pets, can pass through the skin and into the bloodstream. From then on, it causes fever, vomiting and diarrhea.
If left untreated, infection in humans can cause kidney damage, meningitis, liver failure, and even death.
canine dermatophytosis
It is one of the common diseases in dogs that attacks the surface of the skin, including the hair follicles and sometimes the dog’s nails. It is caused by a fungus, it is very contagious and it reproduces quickly.
salmonellosis
This bacteria causes disorders such as lethargy, gastroenteritis, vomiting, miscarriages and sepsis. Owners of dogs diagnosed with salmonellosis should be separated from their pets during the acute phase of the illness.
Giardia
It is a rapidly reproducing intestinal parasite. It is usually asymptomatic, so your dog can be infected and pass it on to other dogs and humans without anyone noticing.
Its main symptom is diarrhea, but it is not frequent, as it happens on some days but not on many others. This makes it difficult to detect the disease.
Scabies
Also known as canine scabies, it is caused by a mite present in dust or vegetation. They feed on the epithelial cells in the host’s skin. It is one of the most common diseases in dogs that is most easily transmitted to humans.
If I am part of the risk group, should I donate my dog?
No! It just means that you must be very cautious with your pet. Furthermore, there are many studies that show that the benefits of having a pet, especially when suffering from chronic illnesses, are immeasurable.
In fact, doctors sometimes recommend pets for their sick patients.
Several measures can be taken to ensure your safety, including regular monitoring for signs of illness in your dog.
Some basic hygienic practices, such as washing your hands after touching your pet and avoiding direct contact with your dog’s urine or feces, are prudent actions you should consider.
Prevention against the most common diseases in dogs
The best way to reduce or eliminate your dog’s risk of getting disease is to maintain good hygiene habits and use common sense. Here are some more specific suggestions:
- Make sure the dog’s illnesses are treated in time. Be sure to visit the veterinarian if your dog shows signs of discomfort or abnormal conditions. If your dog is sick, wash your hands after touching him.
- Keep your dog clean! Bathe regularly. When doing this, examine him carefully for signs of illness, especially skin lesions and rashes.
- Give your dog dewormers. Broad-spectrum wormers can prevent intestinal worms and other parasites.
- Avoid touching your dog’s feces when you go for a walk; use gloves or a bag to pick them up and dispose of them immediately.
- Give your pets separate dishes and water bowls.
- Wash your pet’s bedding often.
- Use flea and tick preventative products regularly.
- Wash off bites and scratches immediately.
- Keep your pet indoors and don’t let him eat trash or drink toilet water.
Keeping your pet healthy will also help keep your family away from common dog illnesses. It’s up to you to stay tuned and apply the basic tips we’ve just shared.
