More and more pet owners are wondering how close contact with their pets, including kissing, is safe for their health.
This was reported by URA-Inform with reference to the Telegram channel “Doctor in the Pocket”.
According to veterinarians and infectious disease specialists, despite the fact that hundreds of different types of bacteria live in a dog's mouth, the real risk of transmitting diseases to humans is extremely low.
The exception is when a kiss or close contact occurs on an open wound or ulcer. In such situations, bacteria present in the animal's saliva can enter the human body and cause an infection.
In addition, there is a small but potential risk of infection with parasites, although experts note that the number of parasitic cysts transmitted by licking is usually not large enough to cause a serious illness.
For the vast majority of people, such contacts with animals do not pose a threat, especially if basic hygiene rules are followed. However, experts recommend avoiding kisses with pets, especially if a person suffers from immunodeficiency or has serious chronic diseases that weaken the body's defenses.
It is important to remember that for a pet, displays of affection do not depend on kisses and close contact with the owner – there are many other safe ways to demonstrate love for your animal.
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