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Dogs bring joy and companionship, but they can also carry diseases that affect humans. While rabies is widely recognized, there are numerous other dog-borne illnesses, including leptospirosis, ehrlichiosis, salmonellosis, and ringworm, which can pose serious health risks. Symptoms may range from mild fever and skin rashes to severe infections and organ complications. Awareness of these diseases, proper hygiene, timely vaccinations, and regular veterinary check-ups are essential to minimize risk. Educating pet owners about transmission routes and preventive practices ensures the safety of both humans and dogs. By taking informed precautions, families can enjoy the emotional benefits of dog companionship while safeguarding their health and preventing the spread of potentially harmful infections.




10 health risks from dogs to humans besides rabies: Risks and prevention







Leptospirosis – A bacterial threat from dog urine


Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection spread through the urine of infected dogs and other animals. Humans can contract it by coming into contact with contaminated water, soil, or mud.


Symptoms include:

• High fever
• Severe muscle aches
• Kidney or liver complications

Prevention strategies:

• Regular vaccination of dogs
• Wearing gloves when handling animals or cleaning their waste
• Practicing strict hand hygiene, especially after floods or heavy rainfall

Leptospirosis highlights the importance of environmental hygiene and preventive pet care.



Campylobacteriosis – Diarrheal infection from puppies

Puppies often carry Campylobacter bacteria, which can infect humans through fecal-oral transmission. This is particularly dangerous for children, elderly individuals, and immunocompromised persons.


Symptoms:

• Diarrhea
• Stomach cramps
• Fever

Preventive measures:

• Wash hands thoroughly after handling dogs or cleaning up feces
• Avoid close contact between puppies and high-risk individuals
• Disinfect areas where dogs play or relieve themselves

Campylobacteriosis underlines the importance of personal hygiene when handling young pets.



Salmonellosis – Risk from dog food and surfaces

Humans can contract Salmonella by handling dogs, their food bowls, or contaminated pet food. Dogs may carry the bacteria without showing any symptoms.

Symptoms include:

• Diarrhea
• Fever
• Abdominal cramps

Prevention tips:

• Avoid feeding pets raw diets
• Clean pet food bowls and utensils regularly
• Monitor recalls for pet food products

Proper pet food hygiene is crucial to prevent this common zoonotic bacterial infection.



Toxocariasis (Dog Roundworm) – Hidden risk in soil

Toxocara canis eggs, found in dog feces, can infect humans if ingested accidentally. Children are especially susceptible due to outdoor play.

Symptoms may include:

• Eye damage (ocular larva migrans)
• Organ inflammation
• Rare neurological complications

Preventive measures:

• Deworm dogs regularly
• Promptly pick up dog feces
• Encourage handwashing after outdoor activities
• Toxocariasis emphasizes routine deworming and environmental cleanliness.

Zoonotic Hookworm (Cutaneous Larva Migrans) – Skin infection

Hookworm larvae from dog feces can penetrate human skin, causing intensely itchy, winding rashes.

Prevention tips:

• Wear shoes in parks or sandy areas
• Avoid sitting on bare ground outdoors
• Maintain routine deworming for pets

Hookworm infections demonstrate the importance of protective habits during outdoor activities.



Echinococcosis (Hydatid Disease) – Tapeworm infection

Dogs can carry Echinococcus tapeworms, which shed eggs that humans may ingest. These eggs can form cysts in internal organs, leading to serious illness.

Prevention measures:

• Regularly deworm dogs
• Safely dispose of dog feces
• Avoid feeding raw offal to pets

Echinococcosis illustrates the dangers of parasite transmission from dogs to humans.


Capnocytophaga Infection – Rare but severe

Capnocytophaga bacteria can enter human skin through dog bites or saliva. While infections are rare, they can cause sepsis in immunocompromised individuals.

Prevention tips:

• Clean bite wounds immediately
• Seek medical attention for any signs of infection

This highlights the importance of prompt wound care after dog bites or scratches.



Pasteurella infection – Rapid skin infection

Pasteurella bacteria can cause fast-developing infections after dog bites or scratches, potentially leading to cellulitis or more severe illness.


Prevention measures:

• Clean wounds thoroughly
• Use prescribed antibiotics when recommended
• Early intervention is key to reducing complications from Pasteurella infections.

Ringworm (Dermatophytosis) – Fungal skin infection


Ringworm is a contagious fungal infection that can spread from infected dogs to humans.


Symptoms:

• Circular, itchy rashes
• Red, scaly patches

Prevention tips:

• Treat infected pets promptly
• Wash hands after contact with pets
• Clean bedding, grooming tools, and living areas

Ringworm underscores the need for hygiene and timely treatment in managing fungal infections.



Brucellosis (Brucella canis) – Rare but long-term illness

Brucella canis spreads via bodily fluids of infected dogs. Though rare, it can cause prolonged fever and systemic illness.

High-risk groups:

• Dog breeders
• Kennel workers

Prevention measures:

• Wear protective gear when handling dogs
• Regularly test breeding dogs for infection
• Maintain strict hygiene practices

Brucellosis demonstrates occupational risks for individuals who handle multiple dogs regularly.


Pro tip: Dogs bring joy, but awareness of dog-borne diseases is crucial. Vaccinations, routine deworming, personal hygiene, and quick action in case of bites or scratches are essential for safety. Understanding these illnesses helps create a healthy environment for both humans and pets.

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