Contents:
- Medical Video: Why You Should Never Kiss Your Pet
- Risk of health problems that may arise from being licked by a dog
- 1. Parasitic infections
- 2. Stomach ache
- 3. Kadas and ringworm
- What to do after being licked by a dog
Medical Video: Why You Should Never Kiss Your Pet
Pets like dogs are like humans, craving attention and affection. One way dogs show attention and affection is by licking their owners. That is why licking a dog in his hand or even a face may have become a normal thing for you when you invite the person doggy play together. However, do you know if there are health hazards that might occur due to licking a dog? Check out the full information below.
Risk of health problems that may arise from being licked by a dog
Here are some health problems that you should be aware of when licking a dog:
1. Parasitic infections
Parasitic infections caused by dog licking are quite rare, but not impossible. Reporting from the New York Times, Dr. Joe Kinnarney, president of the American Veterinary Medical Association, said that there are as many as 20 million to 30 million roundworm eggs in the intestinal tract of puppies aged one week.
Hookworms and roundworms are transmitted from one dog to another when they swallow feces or lick each other's anus. Well, when you are licked by a dog, the tongue may still contain the remains of these stools containing parasites and move to you.
If you are already infected, symptoms that may arise include skin itching and redness, shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, abdominal pain, diarrhea, fatigue, and even fever.
2. Stomach ache
Animal mouths, including dogs, are ideal homes for many disease-causing germs and viruses. Moreover, dogs also often relax their noses and snouts to dirty places without you knowing, even though they have also been banned.
Bacteria and germs in the muzzle of a dog can spread to humans and cause disease. This is what will increase your risk of becoming infected with the disease after being licked by a dog. The types of bacteria that are common in the mouths of dogs are clostridium, E. coli, salmonella, and campylobacter which can cause severe digestive disorders in humans - from abdominal pain, diarrhea, fever, to nausea and vomiting.
You will not be immediately affected by the disease after being licked by a dog in his hands or feet However, if you are licked in the face, die or around your mouth, your risk can increase. Because the dog's water is more easily absorbed through the mucous membranes of the nose, mouth, eyes, and open wounds. Even so, this health risk is usually more likely to occur in people with low immune systems, such as babies, parents, those who are seriously ill, or people with HIV and others.
3. Kadas and ringworm
Ringworm can be transmitted from pets such as dogs and cats. Ringworm causes an inflamed red rash, sometimes scaly, and its shape is usually round like a ring. The middle part is usually red, but can also be normal skin color.
However, if after a dog's face is licked or your skin becomes red and inflamed in a few minutes, it is an indication of an allergy. Dog saliva contains glycoprotein, a substance that can trigger the body's defense mechanism in some people.
Fungal infections due to dog licking can be treated with antifungal creams or ointments or anti-allergic drugs. It's best to think twice before letting your dog lick your face to avoid this fungal infection.
What to do after being licked by a dog
There is nothing wrong with indulging in pet lovers. With a note, you must be diligent in maintaining cleanliness after playing and interacting with them.
So, after you are satisfied playing with pet dogs, immediately wash your hands and wash licked areas with soap and running water.
Don't forget to also clean your dog cage. If you clean a non-ventilated area, you can use a mask and gloves so that it is not exposed to the dirt directly.
