There are many pet owners who believe that the kisses and licks they get from their dogs on their face are very cute. However, did you know that letting your dog lick you can carry some health risks?
Of course, this is not something that happens intentionally. Your loyal dog will never hurt you on purpose. They just want to have fun and show you how much they love you.
Still, their mouth is full of different kinds of bacteria.
Is a Dog’s Mouth Really Cleaner Than a Human Mouth?
There is a popular belief that dog mouths are much cleaner than human mouths, but this is just a myth. According to many experts, we should use common sense – just look at their mouths and smell their breath, which is often far from fresh.
This is not a surprise given that many dogs like to sniff and lick other dogs and all kinds of things they find outside.
Many people are surprised when they learn how many bacteria a dog’s mouth can carry. These bacteria are not found only in their saliva.
Dogs spend a significant amount of time licking and sniffing things on the ground, and that’s why their muzzles can carry viruses, bacteria, and other germs.
In rare cases, these microorganisms can lead to infections in people. A woman from the UK experienced this herself.
Namely, this woman got an infection that doctors linked to the saliva of her Italian greyhound. She didn’t notice the changes until she started speaking a little differently on the phone. Her speech slowed down, and an ambulance was called right away.
When the team arrived, she was in a serious condition. After two weeks of hospital care and antibiotic treatment, she recovered.
Blood tests showed that the infection was caused by the Capnocytophaga canimorsus bacterium. This bacterium is frequently found in the mouths of both cats and dogs.
This was not the first case in the UK. More than a dozen people have reported similar incidents in the last decade.
Other Infections Pets Can Pass On
This is not the only health problem that a pet can pass on through close contact. Let’s not forget ringworm, a fungal skin infection that dogs can carry on their skin and fur, including around the muzzle.
In case you didn’t know, it is possible to get a ringworm infection through close contact with your dog. Furthermore, pets can occasionally carry MRSA.
This infection can cause skin lesions, and it may be passed on through close contact with your pet.
Dogs are able to carry these bacteria for a long time without any problems for their own health, but their owners may not be that lucky.
Next, if your dog licks you, there is a small chance that you can pick up Staphylococcus aureus. MRSA is a strain of this bacterium that is resistant to some antibiotics. Ordinary staph infections are usually easier to manage, but they still need medical attention.
Once again, let’s mention the Capnocytophaga canimorsus found in a dog’s mouth. The risk is highest if you let your dog lick an open wound, and for people with a weakened immune system, older adults, and small children.
For most healthy people, the chance of experiencing any of these problems is very low. But why take the risk? Wash your hands and face after playing with your pet, keep licks away from your mouth, eyes, and wounds, and see a doctor if a bite or scratch becomes red or swollen. You can always hug your dog to show them your love.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always talk to your doctor about any health concern.