Penn State Researchers Issue Report On Kissing Your Dog

Claudia Winkleman raised more than a few eyebrows last week with her surprising revelation about her affectionate relationship with her one-year-old King Spaniel, Skip.

The “Traitors” host confessed to a rather unconventional habit: not just kissing her dog, but actually opening his mouth and inserting her tongue. While dog lovers may relate to sharing close bonds with their furry friends, experts are sounding the alarm on the potential health risks of such intimate interactions.

According to a new study by a team of researchers at Penn State, dogs can act as “overlooked spreaders” of zoonotic pathogens—diseases that can be transmitted from animals to humans.

One of the biggest concerns? Antibiotic-resistant Salmonella. This harmful bacteria, often associated with contaminated food, can also be spread through close contact with pets. Symptoms of infection include diarrhea, fever, abdominal pain, and in severe cases, even death.

Sophia Kenney, one of the study’s authors, pointed out the unique risks that come with having such close relationships with companion animals. “We don’t let cows sleep in our beds or lick our faces, but we do with dogs,” she explained. “This close interface with dogs presents a unique opportunity for bacteria like Salmonella to spread.”

The research analyzed data from the U.S. Food & Drug Administration’s Veterinary Laboratory Investigation and Response Network, identifying 87 cases of Salmonella in domestic dogs between 2017 and 2023.

Astonishingly, they found 77 suspected zoonotic cases where the bacteria jumped from dogs to humans, comprising 164 distinct strains.

While Salmonella infections in dogs aren’t extremely common, they can occur through contaminated pet treats, improperly handled pet food, or even environmental exposure. And since symptoms in dogs may not always be obvious, they can unknowingly act as carriers, passing the bacteria onto humans through close contact.

Health experts are now urging dog owners to practice better hygiene. “Simple measures like washing your hands after touching your dog, avoiding kissing them, and being cautious about their food can significantly reduce the risk,” said Nkuchia M’ikanatha, co-author of the study.

The takeaway? While dogs are undoubtedly family members, even the healthiest ones can carry hidden risks. Loving your pup is one thing, but locking lips with them might just take that bond a little too far.

Daily Mail

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