Hi Reader,

I was deworming our cat yesterday, and even for a veterinarian, administering pills to cats at home can be quite a challenge 😩

As I was tending to a minor scratch on my hand afterward, I had an idea – perhaps it's time to share some insights about zoonoses, the diseases that can be transmitted from pets to humans. So in today's newsletter, I want to start this discussion by focusing on the most prevalent diseases you can contract from your canine companion 🐶

What are zoonoses?

Zoonoses are diseases that can be passed from animals to humans and vice versa. While our pets bring us immense joy and companionship, it's crucial to be aware of the potential health risks associated with close contact with them.

How great is the risk of catching a zoonosis from a dog?

While the transmission of diseases from domestic pets to humans is less common when compared to other sources of pathogens, it can still happen. Various factors come into play when assessing the risk, including housing conditions, the age of your pet, and their veterinary care.

Some people are more likely to get sick from their pets. They are often referred to as YOPI – representing Young children, Old individuals, Pregnant women, and Immunocompromised individuals such as cancer patients or those with HIV.

If you or a family member fall into this high-risk category, it's crucial to exercise extra caution when cohabiting with an animal. However, this doesn't necessarily mean you can't enjoy the companionship of a pet. But I would strongly advise you to talk to your doctor to figure out the best way to keep everyone safe ☺️

How can you contract a zoonosis?

Dogs serve as potential carriers of several pathogens that have the potential to be transmitted to humans. These pathogens may be disseminated through various means, including contaminated saliva, airborne particles (aerosols), tainted urine or feces, and direct physical contact with the dog.

Broadly, zoonotic diseases can be categorized into two primary groups:

The first category encompasses diseases that can be transmitted through direct physical contact, such as bites or scratches from the dog.
The second category encompasses diseases that are transmitted via other routes, such as through vectors (like insects) or contact with contaminated substances.

This means that the risk of contracting a disease is not limited to instances of dog bites or scratches. Rather, it extends to everyday interactions, such as petting, playing with, or allowing a dog to lick one's face or mouth!

Examples of the most common zoonoses transmitted from dogs to humans:

Bacterial infections:

Dogs can carry various bacteria that may be transmitted to humans, leading to health issues. Certain bacteria like Campylobacter and Salmonella can cause severe gastrointestinal issues in both dogs and humans. Symptoms often include fever, diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. These infections can be especially dangerous for small children. If your pet is experiencing diarrhea, it's crucial to keep your children away.

Parasitic infections:

There are several unpleasant parasitic infections that can be transmitted from dogs to humans, each with its own set of concerns:

Internal Parasites: These parasites typically lead to gastrointestinal issues and diarrhea in both dogs and humans.
External Parasites: These parasites can cause skin irritations and various skin diseases in humans.

Fungal infections:

You might be familiar with a condition known as ringworm, but despite its name, there are no actual worms involved in this ailment 😉

Ringworm is actually a fungal infection that can be contracted by coming into contact with an infected animal, such as handling, petting, or grooming. Typically, it manifests as a red circular rash with clearer skin in the center.

I personally experienced it during my studies, and I can tell you that it can be quite itchy and uncomfortable. However, the good news is that it typically responds well to anti-fungal treatments.

Viral infections:

One of the most well-known viral zoonoses is rabies, caused by a rhabdovirus and primarily transmitted through bites and scratches. Dogs can become infected through contact with wildlife, and infected animals often exhibit neurological symptoms and unusual behavior.

You should always be cautious when you encounter stray dogs that are displaying abnormal behavior, as rabies is fatal for both animals and humans.

The good news is that rabies is preventable, with vaccines available for both humans and dogs.

How to reduce the risk of catching a zoonosis:

Among the general population, dog bites and scratches are the most common sources of concern due to their frequency.

In the event of a dog bite or scratch, it's crucial to promptly disinfect the wound. If you notice any signs of infection, such as redness, or swelling, or if you experience additional symptoms like fever, please seek medical attention.

Other preventive measures:

Be very careful when handling raw meat in your kitchen. Store and handle raw meat separately.
Deworm your dog regularly with a broad-spectrum product
Use flea and tick control products to prevent tick-borne diseases
Vaccinate your dog
In case your dog shows any signs of illness, take him to a vet for proper diagnosis and treatment
If your dog is sick, wash your hands after handling him
If your dog has diarrhea, thoroughly wash or disinfect the place where he’s sleeping or where some feces might have fallen. Keep him away from children. Wash your hands thoroughly after handling the dog or his bedding, chew toys…
Be careful if you have small children – don’t let the dog lick their face. Don’t let them touch your dog’s butt or feces (yep, it does happen 🤷‍♀️)
Groom your pet regularly and look for any signs of skin problems
Wash your pet’s bedding regularly
Don’t touch stray dogs, or if you are like me and have to pet them, wash your hands thoroughly afterward. Avoid touching your face, food, and drinks.

I hope this information will help you keep your family safe and enjoy your cherished bond with your furry friends to the fullest. Remember, a little knowledge and vigilance can go a long way in creating a safe and loving environment for everyone in your household ☺️

Zoonoses: diseases you can catch from your dog

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If you want to keep track of your pup's tick treatments, deworming, and vaccinations, here's a printable Pet planner you can use ☺️

Printable Pet Planner for Busy Dog Owners

This easy-to-use printable pet planner helps dog owners keep track of their pup's health and appointments
without getting overwhelmed

VIEW IN SHOP

So that's it from me for today.

Have a lovely day! 🤗

Monika

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