Vet issues ‘stop your dog’ warning over ‘extremely dangerous’ mistake

A veterinarian has urged pet owners to stop letting dogs lick their faces, highlighting the risks posed by “extremely dangerous” bacteria. Many animal lovers think nothing of letting their pooch ‘kiss’ them, but they could be unknowingly risking their health.

UK veterinarian Dr Alex Crow, the Chief Veterinary Officer at The Net Vet and a content creator, shared the warning on Instagram as @alex_thevet. The expert warned his 19k followers: “Stop letting your dog lick your face. Their mouths are full of bacteria, parasites, and fungi, some of which can make you seriously ill.

“Dogs spend their time sniffing faeces, licking wounds, rummaging through trash, and licking other dogs’ bottoms. And it’s not just gross, it’s dangerous. They can carry Campylobacter, Salmonella, and E. Coli, all of which cause vomiting, diarrhoea, and gastroenteritis in humans.

“There’s also a risk of ringworm, a contagious fungal infection. And then there’s Capnocytophaga canimorsus, a rare but aggressive bacteria that can lead to severe sepsis.

“And if your dog’s got dental disease, their saliva is already full of bacteria. Children, older adults, and anyone with a weakened immune system are especially at risk. Look, I get it. You love your dog, but keep the kisses below the neck.”

Reiterating the message in his caption, he added: “This one might upset some people but this is the science – don’t shoot the messenger! Dogs mouths *can* contain all sorts of bacteria that they pick up from eating rotten food on walks, licking dirty puddles or even from eating other dogs poop!

“Some of these bacteria can be extremely dangerous, like capnocytophaga canimorsus – which causes an extremely rare but severe infection.”

According to Pet MD, the risk of illness from a dog lick is low. “However, if you have an open wound and a compromised immune system, are taking certain medications, or are allergic to animal saliva, the risk of infection or allergic reaction caused by being licked could be higher. If you are unsure about any exposure to a dog’s saliva, it’s safest to seek medical attention.”

The advice reads: “If you have been licked and feel uncomfortable with the dog licking, you can wash up with warm water and antibacterial soap. If you are allergic to dogs, be sure to wash off any saliva or fur.

“To discourage dogs from licking our faces, consider training your dog to understand a cue that lets the dog know when to stop, or give them a different target, such as your hands.”

Dogs lick their owners for numerous reasons, though it might indicate affection, attention-seeking conduct, or a method of stress relief. If you laugh and giggle, this will encourage your dog to continue the behaviour, reports the Daily Record.

Pet MD added: “Puppies continue this behaviour of licking faces with humans who typically react with attention, affection, and play. These outcomes teach puppies that licking their humans continues to work as a behaviour that leads to good things.”