Zoonotic Diseases in Dogs

A Zoonotic disease refers to any disease that an animal has that can be passed to a human. Here a a few common examples of zoonotic diseases in dogs.

• Rabies

Rabies can be found in all animals, and in dogs it can occur through bites. Rabies can be fatal to humans and animals if it goes untreated. The best way to prevent rabies is to vaccinate your dog regularly, and to prevent bites as much as you can. If a bite does occur, wash your hands before inspecting the bite and see a doctor if the bite breaks the skin. 

• Capnocytophaga  

This is a common bacteria that lives in dog's and cat's mouths. While not infectious to dogs, this bacteria can be harmful to humans if they are bitten. Common symptoms, are swelling, infection, pain around the area of the bite, muscle or joint pain, and/or fever. The best way to treat these bites is to wash your hands if you get bitten, and see a doctor if the bite breaks the skin. 

• Leptospirosis  

This disease spreads through urine, and other bodily fluids from an infected animal. 30% of human cases of this disease comes from their pets.  Dogs with this disease may show symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, yellow eyes, or jaundice. Humans who are infected may have symptoms like abdominal pain, a rash, fever, yellow eyes, or chills. A small number of people may experience more severe things like kidney failure. The best way to prevent leptospirosis is to vaccinate your dog.

• Hookworms/Roundworms

This parasites are mostly transmitted from animals to humans through eggs. These eggs can live in a dogs fur, and can be transmitted to humans through contact. This larva can enter humans skin, creating what looks like an angry red line. These worms can suck blood, and can also blind a person, so its best to be cautious. It is also a good idea, and also a requirement that all animals are dewormed. If a dog comes from a private breeder, it is good to check if they have been dewormed or not. 

Source: https://www.cdc.gov/healthypets/pets/dogs.html