Search icon

Health

03rd Mar 2017

You should never, EVER kiss your dog. If you need more details, here’s why…

Bad news for dog lovers

Katie Mythen-Lynch

Dog lovers who like to get close to their pooches are exposing themselves more to just doggy breath, it’s emerged.

Spotted on ATTN, one new study reveals that our dog’s mouths are far dirtier than we previously thought.

Prepare to feel a little sick.

Dr. Neilanjan Nandi, an assistant professor at Drexel University says that most animals carry viruses, yeast, bacteria in their mouths.

Our pooches can also carry roundworms and hookworms from licking at faeces and other dogs. While these bacterias are actually healthy for our dogs, it’s bad news for humans.

While it’s generally okay for your dog to lick your hands, provided you wash them well afterwards and remember never to touch your mouth, the face is the most vulnerable part of your body and more susceptible to germs and infections.

Two specific demographics who should avoid dog-licking are babies and elderly people as they’re both deemed as the ages of having the weakest immune system.

I think we’ve learnt our lesson… a cuddle and a pat on the head will suffice, thanks.