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Dogs and mental health -

Research has shown that owning a dog has positive effects on the mental health of their owners. However, there is a risk that dogs may spread harmful germs and illnesses to their caregivers.

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Can people get sick from dogs? -

People can get sick from dogs. Illnesses that pass between animals and humans are known as zootonic diseases. 

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Can people get sick from dogs? -

Household pets can spread germs easily, from stomach bugs and minor skin infections to more serious health conditions.

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Can people get sick from dogs? -

According to a 2012 study based in Finland, noroviruses are one of the leading causes of diarrheal diseases that can survive in dogs and be passed to humans.

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Brucellosis -

Brucellosis is a bacterial disease that causes a flu-like sickness in humans, with symptoms like appetite loss, chills, fever, and back or abdomen pain. While rare, it can be spread through contact with dogs carrying the bacteria.

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Brucellosis -

You could have brucellosis even if your contact with a dog carrying the bacteria happened months ago. It can take anywhere from one week to two months for symptoms to appear.

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Campylobacteriosis -

Campylobacteriosis is a bacterial infection spread to humans via contact with dog or cat feces that contain the bacteria. Symptoms include diarrhea, cramping, and fever.

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Campylobacteriosis -

Symptoms of campylobacteriosis can appear two to five days after exposure. 

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Leptospirosis -

Leptospirosis is a type of bacterial infection spread through dog urine. Symptoms include fever, digestive discomfort, and aches and pains. The condition is rare in the US, and most symptoms are mild.

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Rabies -

Rabies, a viral disease, is rare in the US due to pet vaccinations. Rabies spreads from dogs to humans through bites or scratches.

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Rabies -

Symptoms of rabies include fever, muscle weakness, and tingling. Once symptoms appear, it's often too late for treatment.

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Ringworm -

Ringworm is a fungal infection that can be passed from dogs and cats to humans through direct contact or by touching a surface or object that came into contact with the fungus, including bedding and food bowls.

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Ringworm -

Symptoms of ringworm include a scaly, circular, itchy rash on the skin. Topical medications can clear ringworm in two to four weeks.

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Salmonella -

Salmonella can be spread to humans through contact with a dog's feces or saliva. Symptoms include fever, diarrhea, and vomiting. 

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Salmonella -

In 2019, a salmonella outbreak linked to pig ear treats affected dogs across the United States. Salmonella bacteria can persist in an infected pet's stool for four to six weeks after the initial infection.

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Can gastroenteritis be passed between pets and people? -

Gastroenteritis, or stomach flu, can be spread from pets to people to varying degrees.

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Can gastroenteritis be passed between pets and people? -

For people and pets experiencing the stomach bug, the symptoms can be similar, including fever, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

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Gastroenteritis transmission -

Gastroenteritis may be transmitted between dogs and people through their stools or their saliva.

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Illnesses from cats -

Salmonella may be spread to humans through cats' litter boxes and as they roam through the home.

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Who is most at risk of getting sick from their dog? -

Children, people aged 65 and older, pregnant people, and immunocompromised people are most at risk of catching illnesses from their dogs.

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Who is most at risk of getting sick from their dog? -

The level of risk and who might develop particular conditions may also depend on the specific bacteria, fungus, or disease.

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Can dogs get sick from someone with a cold or the flu? -

Human influenza viruses can affect dogs but according to research, it doesn't appear dogs experience any symptoms.

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What you should do to avoid getting sick from your dog -

Good hygiene and cleanliness practices are the best way to reduce or eliminate your risk of contracting zoonotic diseases from your dog.

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Clean up their mess -

Pick up after your dog as soon as you can and dispose of the mess in a sealed bag. Avoid touching it with your hands or exposing it to clothing or surfaces you may touch. 

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Wash your hands -

Wash your hands with soap and warm water after handling a dog or their feces, food bowls, toys, or anywhere a dog's saliva might have spread germs.

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Don't let your dog lick your face -

As difficult as it may be, avoid letting your dog give you kisses on your face, especially on or around your mouth, nose, or eyes.

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Schedule regular checkups with your dog's vet -

Regular checkups with the veterinarian can identify any health problems, including parasites or infectious diseases that can be spread between animals and humans.

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Vaccinations -

Ensure you and your dog are up to date with all your vaccinations. Dogs should be immunized against rabies, distemper, kennel cough, and canine parvovirus. 

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Prevent bites and scratches -

Avoid interactions with a dog that seems scared or angry, and always ask before petting another person's dog. If you do get bitten or scratched, immediately wash and disinfect the area and seek any medical attention as needed.

Sources: (Healthline) (RSPCA)

See also: These breeds make the best family dogs

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