Sneezing, Hacking, Wheezing... Time to Stay Clear of the Dog!

It’s flu season, and all that sneezing and snuffling that has you tucked into bed for days on end may not be affecting just you. You see, research is showing that our pets are developing ailments very similar to those of their pet parents. While the jury is out on how this is happening, it’s suggested that our fur kids are living longer and their lifestyles lean more towards that of humans rather than their feral ancestors. Meaning, they’re eating regularly, enjoying better quality meals, are having regular vet check-ups and don’t need to fight off predators or marauding wildlife in order to survive. They’re also snuggling up close and sharing what is often tight quarters – including sofas and beds - with humans.

Which leads to how the two of you could be infecting one another.

When illness is spread from animals to humans, it’s called Zoonotic, and it’s caused by the transfer of bacteria, parasites, and viruses. This type of transmission to humans is not uncommon and happens through direct contact with the animal and often due to exposure to fleas and ticks. Now, depending on the catalyst, your pet can infect you with something that is considered relatively mild (think itchy or rash-like) to illnesses that are much more serious, such as Lyme disease or even fatal, such as rabies.

But let’s revisit those ailments you can pass along to that furry sidekick curled up beside you on the sofa. Yes, we’re talking about how you infect your pet, and there’s a name for it – it’s known as Reverse Zoonosis.

And just like it sounds, it’s like Zoonotic, but moving in the other direction – arising from you and being picked up by your dog or cat. How it happens mimics how you pick up a bug (literally and figuratively) from your furry buddy. Direct contact with an infected source. That doesn’t always mean skin to fur, but can include simply touching a contaminated surface or object. And then there are the airborne illnesses – meaning each time you cough, you run the risk of transmitting that ailment to the fur kid.

With Reverse Zoonosis, ailments are spread through pathogens that include bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Studies show some of the more virulent strains that our pets are not only exposed to but are showing signs of being infected with include certain strains of influenza, SARS and even COVID-19. Other illnesses such as MRSA, a staph bacterium that can lead to pneumonia or skin infections, Norovirus that results in vomiting, diarrhea and dehydration, as well as tuberculosis. Yes, all can be passed from humans to animals.

So, how do we safeguard the four-legged family members from our various ailments? According to Dr. Benjamin Anderson of the University of Florida’s College of Public Health and Health Professions, if you’re sick, be more cautious around your pets – particularly if it’s a flu bug or COVID-related. We’re not talking total quarantine, but be more cognizant about handling their food, water, treats, and toys. Avoid snuggles (for now) and pay close attention to any symptoms they may begin showing.