Families enjoy the joy and companionship that companion animals bring, but certain diseases can be spread between humans and dogs, known as zoonotic diseases.
Leptospirosis
Leptospirosis is an infection caused by bacteria found in the urine of animals and that can enter the body through open wounds or mucous membranes such as the eyes or mouth.
Leptospirosis usually manifests its symptoms within a few days of exposure. Fever, headache, chills, muscle aches, and conjunctivitis (red eyes) are common signs. In severe cases, the infection can cause liver or kidney problems, as well as a skin rash.
Tularemia
Tularemia is an infection that can be fatal to humans. It spreads when someone is bitten by an infected tick or fly, or comes into contact with contaminated animals.
Symptoms usually appear three to five days after exposure, although they can take up to 21 days. The doctor will perform tests to look for the bacteria in the blood or other body fluids.
Capnocytophaga canimorsus
Capnocytophaga canimorsus is a gram-negative bacteria usually found in the saliva of dogs and cats. Although rare, this infection can cause serious illness in some people.
Capnocytophaga is transmitted by dogs or cats by biting, scratching or licking open wounds and mucous membranes such as the eyes and mouth. The most common cause is dog bites, but it can also be transmitted from cat bites.
Dermatophytosis
Dermatophytes are fungal infections of the hair, skin, and nails that can spread from contaminated objects or contact with infected animals.
Animal-borne viruses can be spread from infected animals to humans by direct contact, through skin and soil, as well as by contact with fomites such as fence posts on farms or crowded places.
