Table of contents:
- The risk of health problems that may arise from being licked by a dog
- 1. Parasitic infection
- 2. Stomach pain
- 3. Ringworm and ringworm
- What to do after being licked by a dog
Pets are like dogs, just like humans, craving attention and affection. One of the ways a dog shows care and affection is by licking its owner. That's why being licked by a dog on the hand or even in the face may have become a normal thing for you when you invite your dog doggy play together. However, do you know if there are health hazards that might occur from being licked by a dog? Check out the complete information below.
The risk of health problems that may arise from being licked by a dog
Here are some health problems to watch out for if a dog licks:
1. Parasitic infection
Parasitic infections from being licked by dogs are quite rare, but not impossible. Reporting from the New York Times, dr. Joe Kinnarney, president of the American Veterinary Medical Association, says that there are as many as 20 million to 30 million roundworm eggs in the intestinal tract of a one-week-old puppy.
Hookworms and roundworms are passed from one dog to another when they swallow feces or lick each other's anus. Now, when you are licked by a dog, his tongue may still contain the feces of this parasite and pass to you.
If you are already infected, symptoms include skin itching and a red rash, shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, stomach pain, diarrhea, fatigue, and even fever.
2. Stomach pain
The mouths of animals, including dogs, are ideal homes for many disease-causing germs and viruses. What's more, dogs also often sniff their noses and muzzles in dirty places without your knowing it, even though it has also been prohibited.
The bacteria and germs in a dog's muzzle can spread to humans and cause disease. This is what will increase your risk of contracting the disease after being licked by the dog. The most common types of bacteria that land in a dog's mouth are clostridium, E. coli, salmonella, and campylobacter which can cause severe digestive upset in humans - from stomach aches, diarrhea, fever, to nausea and vomiting.
You won't catch the disease immediately after licking your dog on your hand or foot. However, if it is licked on the face, eyes or around the mouth, your risk can increase. This is because dog's liquid is more easily absorbed through the mucous membranes of a person's nose, mouth, eyes, and open wounds. Even so, usually this health risk is more likely to occur in people with low immune systems, for example babies, the elderly, who are seriously ill, or people with HIV and others.
3. Ringworm and ringworm
Ringworm can be transmitted from pets such as dogs and cats. Ringworm causes a red, inflamed skin rash, sometimes scaly, and is usually a round ring-like shape. The center is usually red, but it can also be a normal skin tone.
However, if after a dog lick your face or your skin becomes red and inflamed within a few minutes, that is an indication of an allergy. Dog saliva contains glycoproteins, a substance that can trigger the body's defense mechanisms in some people.
Dog licking fungal infections can be treated with anti-fungal creams and ointments or allergy medications. It's best to think twice before letting your dog lick your face to avoid this yeast infection.
What to do after being licked by a dog
There is nothing wrong with pampering pet pets. With a note, you must be diligent in maintaining cleanliness after playing and interacting with them.
So, once you are satisfied playing with your pet dog, Wash hands immediately and wash licked areas with soap and running water.
Don't forget to clean your dog's crate too. If you are cleaning an area that is not ventilated, you can use a mask and gloves to avoid direct exposure to the dirt.
