Diseases Dogs and Humans Share

When your dog is sick, it can make life miserable for both of you.  Your dog may be up nights whimpering, coughing or vomiting, and you may be up nights worrying and cleaning up after him.  But in most cases, you don’t have to worry about catching what he has.

There are, however, some diseases that may be transmitted from animals to humans.  These are called zoonotic diseases, and there are some that are common in dogs.  Following is information on some of the most prevalent.

Rabies

Rabies is one of the most well known zoonotic diseases, and it is deadly.  It can occur in almost any mammal, including dogs, and is transmissible to humans.  Rabies is transmitted through animal bites, or through contact with the carrier animal’s saliva.

Dogs can get rabies from infected wildlife or strays.  But pets are required to be vaccinated for rabies each year in most locations, so if you’re following this requirement, there is very little chance of your dog contracting it.  If you live in a rural area or plan to take your dog to the woods, it’s especially important to make sure his vaccinations are up to date.

Leptospirosis

Dogs can get Leptospirosis from contaminated water, or through contact with other animals, particularly rodents.  Transmission from dogs to humans is rare, but it has been known to occur when humans come into contact with an infected dog’s urine.  You can help prevent Leptospirosis by taking steps to discourage wildlife from coming on your property and preventing your dog’s access to standing water.

Ringworm

Although it looks like a worm under the skin in humans, ringworm is actually a fungus.  Animals may or may not show signs of ringworm, so transmission to humans is fairly common.  Preventive care can help keep your dog from getting it, and washing your hands thoroughly after handling your dog can protect you.

Worms

Roundworms, hookworms and tapeworms are parasites that are very common in dogs.  Puppies may be born with any of these, and older dogs can become infected.  These usually are not transmitted to humans, but may infect children and those with weak immune systems.  Dogs can be treated with worm medicine, and humans can prevent infection with proper hygiene.

Scabies

Known as sarcoptic mange in dogs, scabies is a skin disease that is caused by tiny mites.  It is easily transmissible from dogs to humans.  In dogs, it causes hair loss.  In humans, it causes a rash.  And it causes intense itching in both.  Dogs can be treated with dips or injections.  Topical and oral treatments are available to humans.

Tick-Borne Illnesses

Although they can’t be transmitted directly between dogs and humans, Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever are considered zoonotic diseases.  They are both transmitted by ticks that have bitten infected hosts, including but not limited to dogs and humans.  The best prevention for these diseases is prevention of tick bites and quick removal of any ticks that are found on you or your dog.