Did you know that there are infectious diseases called zoonotic diseases that dogs and people can give to each other?  A zoonotic disease is a disease that can be passed from animals to humans. Common zoonotic diseases include Cryptosporidium, Giardia, Leptospirosis, Rabies, Ringworm, Roundworm, and salmonelosis.

Although we are more likely to contract aliments from humans more commonly then our dogs, simple precautions, common sense and good hygiene can keep you and your dog free from zoonotic diseases:

Wash hands before eating, and after handling your animals

Schedule annual checkups and fecal exams for your dog

Seek veterinary care for sick dogs

Keep rabies vaccines up to date

Maintain appropriate flea and tick control

Avoid letting your dog lick face, food utensils, or plates

Seek medical attention for dog bites

Feed dogs cooked or commercially processed foods

Wear gloves when gardening or handling raw meat; wash hands afterwards

Cover children’s sandboxes

Wash fruits and veggies before eating

Filter or boil surface water before consuming

Cook meat to 160°F or 80°C