As you know, your canine companion is susceptible to various diseases and infections. Have you ever wondered whether or not you could potentially catch anything from Fido? Actually, yes, you can. It is possible for animals to transmit certain illnesses to humans. The diseases that can move between us and our animal friends are known as zoonotic diseases.

H  ere, a veterinarian tells you more about zoonotic diseases and how to keep both your dog and your family members safe.

What Diseases Can I Catch From My Dog?

You’ve almost certainly heard of the most infamous—and the most dangerous—of all zoonotic diseases: rabies. Rabies can be deadly in both dogs and humans! Other zoonotic diseases include Ehrlichiosis, salmonella, leptospirosis, giardiasis, Lyme disease, campylobacteriosis, and brucellosis. And while rare, it’s entirely possible for parasites like hookworms, ringworms, roundworms, tapeworms, mites, and more to be contracted by a human from a dog.

Risk Factors

Certain people are at a higher risk than others of contracting a zoonotic disease from a dog than others. That group includes elderly individuals, young children, pregnant women, individuals undergoing radiation-related treatments, such as chemotherapy, and anyone with a compromised immune system. However, even high-risk people can usually have pets without worrying. All you need to do is follow a few basic protocols (more on that below).

It’s important to understand that an average healthy adult human is not at high risk of contracting an illness from their dog. In fact, it’s very unlikely, as long as the individual practices basic hygiene. Because of modern veterinary methods, like vaccination and pest-control products, the risk is even lower than it used to be.

How Do I Prevent the Problem?

Make sure that you and all members of your family practice basic hygiene. Wash your hands on a regular basis. Also, avoid direct physical contact with your dog’s feces. Wash Fido’s food and water dishes, bed, and toys regularly so that any germs are destroyed. Finally, keep your canine companion on year-round preventative medications to ward off fleas, ticks, and worms, and make sure Fido is up to date on essential vaccinations to prevent disease. Ask your vet for more information.

Does your pet need vaccinations or pest-control medicine? Call today to make an appointment.