Zoonotic Canine Diseases

Dogs are not generally dangerous pets, but close contact with any animal opens the window for disease transmission. Canines can carry many zoonotic diseases, which can be transmitted to humans. These diseases can afflict humans via bites, poor hygiene or through parasites. By keeping pets healthy and maintaining a clean home and pet space, you can avoid most zoonotic canine diseases.

  1. Rabies

    • Rabies is a deadly virus that affects the brain and nervous system, sending the carrier into a state of frenzy. Dogs get the virus from wild animal bites and carry it in their saliva. Infected dogs in turn become violent and agitated and transmit the disease to humans by biting them. Any behavioral changes like agitation, aggression and biting are signs that your dog should be quarantined and taken to the veterinarian for analysis. Avoid contact with wild or stray animals and report any signs of possibly rabid animals to your local animal control or wildlife management agency. If you have a canine pet, it is advisable to have your pet vaccinated against rabies.

    Scabies

    • Scabies, also called sarcoptic mange, is not a transmissible disease but a mite infestation. The tiny mites burrow under the infected dog's skin and cause frequent scratching, hair loss and bleeding. In humans, scabies results in itching, oozing sores and red spots that must be treated. There are washes, shampoos and prescription drugs for both dogs and humans.

    Lyme Disease

    • Lyme disease is not transferred directly from dogs but from infected ticks that feed on the canines. Lyme disease is a potentially deadly disease that affects the bones, muscles and joints of the carrier. Once an infected tick bites a dog or human, symptoms of aches, swollen lymph nodes, fever and arthritic joints and loss of appetite worsen unless treated. Wash your canine frequently and check the dog for ticks after it's been outside in tall grass or shrubs.