The Downside of your Dog's Licking Behavior

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Dogs have been the best friends of human beings since ages. Not only do these furry pals, love us unconditionally, but they are also extremely loyal to us. With the help of dogs, we are able to beat our blues of depression coupled with any negative emotion boiling inside us. Lots of research has been conducted in this area and it has been proved that dog's closeness and their love has the power to decrease the problem of high blood pressure and anxiety.

So, how does your pooch show love towards you? Obviously, by licking you. But the question is why do dogs lick? We know just one side of the story and presume that we know know everything about dog licking, and what it means. But on the contrary, there are some hidden dangers of dog licking that have not been unveiled yet. Yes, it is true that your tyke licks you to shower love; but he is also putting you in danger, when he conducts this behavior.

Dog's Saliva Is The Home Of Various Germs & Diseases That Causes Zoonotic Diseases

  • Even though you keep your doggy hygienic and clean, chances are that his saliva contains germs and organisms that can easily spread to you and cause diseases. Some of these zoonotic germs encompass: roundworms, hookworms and tapeworms. 
  • Dogs can get worm infestation, when they conduct things like licking the trash can at your home or licking something off the street while walking or simply by licking themselves. There are times when dogs contract eggs on their fur, and so when you pet their fur without washing your hands, chances are you may end up ingesting the roundworms. (Disgusting, isn't it??)
  • Apart from these, dog licking can even cause life-threatening problems like MRSA, which is an infection that can produce lesions. It is very lethal for human beings.
  • The dog lick can also result in life-threatening gum problems, that can result in kidney ailments, diabetes and heart diseases. 
  • Dog licks are specially a strict "NO" for elderly and infants, as these two categories of people have very low level of immunity. Elderly people are more susceptible to sepsis. It causes slurred speeches, high fever, diarrhea, confusion and headaches. They may need immediate hospitalization, if contracted by this disease. Also ensure that newborn babies are kept away from dogs and their so called "love filled licks".

Apart From Licks, Be Vary Of These:

Yes, dog licks are the most common way of getting infections. But there are other ways too. One of the prime example is playing fetch with the doggy. The ball is equally dangerous, as it can also also transmit infections because:
  • The ball goes in all kinds of places like: dirt, bacteria and mud
  • The dog fetches it which can easily transmit saliva on it (and we have already discussed about the downside of dog's saliva on humans)
  • You employ your bare hands to retrieve or throw the ball
This can result in serious infection that you have never heard before.

The Best Course Of Action To Be Taken

  • Be very cautious while dealing with doggy licks 
  • Keep your furry pal healthy by giving him bi-weekly baths and regular de-worming 
  • If your doggy licks you, ensure that you wash your hands and face with soap. This action does not mean that you do not love your four-legged pal, rather it is just a precautionary measure to ensure that you do not contract any disease. 
  • Ensure that infants are kept away from the pooch (we have already discussed about the weak immune system of infants). Let them get a little bigger and then they will have ample time to play with the tyke. 
Once you take these points into consideration, it will ensure better health for you and your family - and that includes your furry pal too!!! 

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