Dogs are credited as being man's best friend, and as such will share everything that best friends do--including germs. Some diseases can be spread from humans to dogs and vice versa. Knowing the risks can help keep you and your canine companion happy and healthy.
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Identification
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Diseases that can be transmitted between species are called zoonotic diseases.
Types
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Common diseases spread between dogs and humans are scabies, rabies, giardia, E. coli and toxoplasmosis. Parasitic infections such as roundworm, ringworm and tapeworm are also common.
Prevention
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Wash your hands thoroughly after handling your dog and utilize proper hygienic techniques. Visit a veterinarian upon the first sign of illness for adequate care and to halt the spread of transmission. Speak to your doctor if you feel you may have picked up a zoonotic disease.
Misconceptions
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Not every illness can be spread between the species. You cannot give your dog a cold and vice versa.
Warning
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Those who are pregnant, nursing, immune compromised, young, elderly or work in an animal care job are at a higher risk for contracting a zoonotic disease.
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