OK, who lets their pooch give them kisses? I proudly raise my hand. I realize some people might think it’s disgusting, but I can’t help it. I love getting big, sloppy kisses from my dog, Gabby. Don’t tell my mother. She would probably pass out. The question is, “Can a person get sick from a dog kiss?” Technically, it’s possible, but realistically, the probability is low.
According to Dr. Marty Becker, veterinarian and author of Chicken Soup for the Dog Owner’s Soul, “If you want to give your pooch a kiss, it may be safer than kissing another human. Many of the bacteria in the mouth of a dog are species specific, so it won’t harm its owner. So a staph or a strep for a human is not transmissible to a dog, if you were to kiss it and vice versa. Bottom line – you’re more likely to get a serious illness from kissing a person than kissing a dog. But since dogs do transmit some germs, it’s wise to take precautions.”
This sounds like a no-brainer, but keeping pets free of parasites, both internal and external, is important. That’s smart regardless of kissing. Here’s a gruesome thought: There are some types of worms that can be passed to people and by swallowing the worm eggs. Fleas and ticks can feed on animals and can just as easily feed on humans. They can also be carriers of serious disease.
Vaccinations help prevent the spread of disease. According to the Center for Disease Control, leptospira and rabies are the most common. Culver City requires vaccination against rabies. Of course, this is something worth doing with or without kisses.
Keeping a pet clean and well-groomed also makes transmission of diseases less likely, in addition to making the pet more pleasant to have around.
A healthy mouth certainly smells much better than a mouth full of rotten teeth. Who wants to be kissed by that? Dogs also need to visit the doggie dentist once in a while. According to the American Veterinary Dental Society, “More than 80% of dogs and 70% of cats develop gum disease by the age of 3 years. Periodontal disease is the most common dental condition affecting dogs and cats. Infection and inflammation of the gums and supporting tissues of the teeth are caused by bacteria present in plaque and tartar.”
It goes without saying that kissing a strange dog is not a good idea. Never get face-to-face with a strange dog without asking the owner’s permission.
“Dogs love us unconditionally, they make us laugh,” says Becker. “If we’re going to give them a little kiss to thank them for that, then that’s good by me.”
It boils down to a personal decision. Just remember to use a bit of common sense. Keep pups healthy and the risk is minimal, even if they do lick their behinds and then offer a big wet smooch.
