Zoonotic Diseases
Zoonotic Diseases is the technical term for diseases that can be passed from an animal to a human or a human to a animal. Such diseases range from ringworm to salmonella, and from toxoplasmosis to rabies. So should you worry the next time your dog kisses you on the mouth? Watch this video to find out more!
Step 1: The Issue
Some people don’t seem to mind having a dog lick their face, while others cringe at the thought of kissing a dog. The question is, is it really safe?
If your pet jumped up on the couch and licked you in the face or licked you in the mouth, there is very little for you to worry about.
Getting a kiss from your pooch is no big deal, but there are many diseases that can be transmitted from pet to human. Zoonoses is the medical term for the transfer of disease from animals to humans and humans to animals.
Step 2: Ringworm
Ringworm is one of the most common zoonotic diseases. It’s a fungus you can get by simply coming into contact with an infected dog or cat. It’s not dangerous but can cause hair loss and red spots for humans and pets.
Step 3: Salmonella
Many parents purchase reptiles for their kids. They’re easy to take care of, but lizards and turtles can transmit Salmonella. Make sure kids wash their hands after handling reptiles.
Step 4: Toxoplasmosis
Cats can transmit Toxoplasmosis. This is a parasite shed from a cat’s fecal matter. It’s extremely dangerous to pregnant women and AIDS patients.
Step 5: Rabies
A serious threat is rabies. Pets can get it from skunks, bats, and raccoons, while humans can get it from pets. Keep your pets’ vaccinations current and, remember, it’s an extremely deadly disease for both pets and humans. Don’t keep your pets in the backyard unintended.
Step 6: Safety Tips
Here are some zoonoses safety tips:
•Make sure your groomer sterilizes instruments.
•Keep current on the rabies vaccinations.
•And don’t feed wild animals in your neighborhood.
And in case you’re wondering, if you get a cold and you’re worried about passing it along to your pet – don’t. It’s impossible for Influenza or the common cold to be transferred from person to animal.
