Diseases that can be transferred from animals to humans are called "zoonotic." Some common ailments transferable from dogs include poison ivy, fleas, ticks, mites, fungi and worms. This article explores the transfer of worms from dogs to humans.
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Roundworm
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Of all the parasites, roundworm is the most common in dogs. It can only be transferred to humans, though, if humans eat roundworm eggs. This can happen inadvertently, especially to children who have been playing in sand or soil that is or had been contaminated with dog feces. Even though feces may not be visible, traces infected with roundworm could remain. Roundworms can live in sand or soil for up to seven years. Once the roundworms have been ingested they hatch in the child's intestines.
Hookworm
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The transfer of hookworm to humans can happen much in the same way as roundworm, but with one additional possibility: They can also enter through the skin. The hookworms then travel under the skin, causing a trail of "bites" that itch and cause a rash. Most often, humans contract hookworm by walking barefoot on contaminated soil or sand. Hookworm also often enter through the buttocks if a person sits on a contaminated area.
Ringworm
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While called a worm, ringworm is actually a fungus. It is highly contagious to humans and is most typically transferred by skin contact. It is called ringworm because it forms a ring of lesions on the skin.
Tapeworm
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Tapeworm is caused by ingesting infected fleas, so it is not common in humans. Pets get it because they sometimes ingest a flea while grooming themselves. Humans can become infected, but only if they eat a flea; being bitten by an infected flea is not enough to cause tapeworm.
Threadworm (aka "Pinworm")
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Threadworm is fairly common in children. It looks like tiny pieces of thread and is visible in the child's feces. It is not transferred from dogs to humans, but by other humans (usually child-to-child).
Heartworm
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Dogs contract heartworm from mosquitoes. It is not possible for dogs to transfer heartworm to humans. Furthermore, heartworms do not find humans suitable hosts.
Prevention
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Dog kisses may be wonderful, but make sure not to be kissed on the lips. Dogs often lick their anuses in an effort to keep them clean, and the anus is a common location for worms. It is also important, therefore, to wash your hands after petting or being licked by a dog, especially before you eat. Try to make sure your children keep their fingers out of their mouths if they have been playing with a dog, at least until you have washed their hands. Lastly, it is important to keep your pet properly vaccinated against worms and to de-worm it regularly.
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