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Should you let your dog lick you? Well hardcore dog-lovers will fight tooth and nail to prove that you should let your dog lick you because that is how they show you affection. This view is not entirely wrong because after all, which dog-lover would have the heart to push away his canine when it comes to showing love in the only way it can? But emotions are just one aspect of this show of affection. The other aspect which should a dog-lover needs to consider is the health issues associated with a dog's saliva.It is difficult to say whether a dog's saliva is good or bad- and if good, then exactly how much of it is good? In this post, we shall present five facts to you for you to consider. The aim is not to make you stop your dog from showing you some love- rather, it is only to make you more aware.
- Dogs maintain poor oral hygiene. Have you ever wondered why your dog has bad breath.? Yes, there are some very serious reasons for that. A dog's mouth has bacteria that can prove to be harmful to you, though not very fatal. Besides, you would have definitely seen your pooch licking its own private parts, which is followed by licking you! You can very well guess what that means. The bottom-line: Your dog's saliva contains harmful bacteria. You would do better to avoid it.
- Dog saliva has the ability to heal. The enzymes in your dog's saliva may have healing properties. Its rough tongue can also help in cleansing your surface wounds. However, refer to the first point: with the healing properties come a greater chance of infection as well.
- But it doesn't necessarily heal your wounds. It is a common myth that because dogs heal their surface wounds by their saliva, the same will happen with you too. Well, here's the truth: it may not. The enzymes in a dog's saliva will work WELL only on a dog, not so much on you. On the flip-side, there can be a chance of infection as discussed earlier.
- Dogs will not pass on their illness to you. Diseases suffered by your dog are specific to only him. This means that getting licked by your pet won't necessary transfer his illnesses to you.
- You can get infected by round- worms. Dog's saliva also contain round-worms. The more you are letting yourself get licked, the more you are exposing yourself to roundworms, especially if they lick your wounds.These are five facts for you to consider. This does not mean that you will definitely fall sick if your dogs licks you. This depends on your immune system and how much you are used to it. If you have been allowing your pets to lick you for years now, and you haven’t fallen sick because of it, chances are your body has developed anti-bodies to protect you. To be safer, however, regularly take your pets for check-ups, de-worming and parasite-treatment and you're good to go.
Frequently Asked Questions
How healthy is dog saliva?
Dog saliva is generally considered to be relatively healthy, although it is not entirely devoid of potential risks. Saliva serves several functions in dogs, including helping in the digestion process, keeping the mouth clean, and providing a moist environment for the healing of wounds. It contains enzymes like lysozyme, which can help combat bacteria and promote oral hygiene. Additionally, dog saliva contains immunoglobulins that contribute to the immune system's defense against pathogens. However, it is vital to exercise caution when it comes to dog saliva due to potential health concerns. Dogs may carry certain bacteria in their mouths, such as Pasteurella, Capnocytophaga, and Eikenella, which can all be transferred through bites, licks, or scratches. While these bacteria rarely cause infections in healthy individuals, they can pose a risk to people with compromised immune systems or those with open wounds.
Is it safe for a dog to lick your face?
There are dangers and factors to think about before letting a dog lick your face. Even while many people find it pleasant and see it as an expression of love, it's crucial to be aware of any potential health risks. Dogs' mouths can contain parasites and germs that might be dangerous to people. Although there is typically little chance of getting an illness from a dog lick, there is still some chance. A dog's mouth may include some bacteria, including Pasteurella, Capnocytophaga, and Eikenella, which may cause infections if they get into the body through open wounds or mucous membranes. Dogs can unintentionally spread parasites like fleas and ticks by licking. People with weakened immune systems and those who have injuries or sores are more vulnerable. It is advised to avoid excessive face licking and practice excellent hygiene, such as washing your hands and face completely after dealing with dogs, especially in places where there may be sensitive skin. In the end, it comes down to personal preference, but being aware of the dangers and implementing the appropriate safety measures will help prevent any potential health problems brought on by dogs licking faces.
Why do dogs lick human wounds?
Dogs may instinctively lick human wounds due to a combination of natural behaviors and their innate desire to provide comfort and promote healing. First off, licking is a self-soothing habit for dogs, similar to how people can massage or touch an uncomfortable spot. Dogs lick wounds to release endorphins, which can lessen tension and soothe pain. Dog saliva also includes certain enzymes, such as lysozyme, which have antibacterial qualities and can help clean the wound. Additionally, dogs groom themselves by licking, and they may attempt to clean and remove unwanted objects from the wound out of instinct. Additionally, the wetness from the dog's tongue can offer a somewhat hydrating and protective environment for the wound, promoting faster healing. It's crucial to remember that extended licking could hinder wound healing by introducing more germs or irritants and may even result in infection. Therefore, it is advisable to monitor and manage a dog's licking behavior by employing appropriate wound care techniques, using protective coverings if necessary, and consulting with a veterinarian for guidance on wound management and healing.
Should I let my dog lick my feet?
The final decision on whether to let your dog lick your feet is up to you and your particular preferences and circumstances. There are a few things to bear in mind, though. The first thing to remember is that canine saliva could include bacteria or parasites that might possibly be passed on to people. Although the likelihood of getting an infection from a dog lick is often minimal, persons with weakened immune systems, open sores, or skin disorders may be more vulnerable. It might be better to forego having your dog lick your feet if you have any health issues of your own or if you fall into one of these higher-risk categories. Additionally, some people may find foot licking uncomfortable or undesirable due to personal preferences or hygiene concerns. If you choose to let your dog lick your feet, it's important to practice excellent hygiene by washing your feet well both before and after to reduce any possible hazards. Regular veterinary treatment for your dog, such as immunizations, parasite prevention, and dental care, will also lessen any potential health risks brought on by dog saliva. However, in the end, it's up to you whether or not to let your dog lick your feet, but it's crucial for your health to think about the dangers and take precautions to avoid them.
