School’s back in session! Just as homework will start coming home with children, so will creepy-crawly germs at the end of the school day. I’ll bet you do everything possible to protect your kids from illnesses. They probably take their vitamins, eat healthy, and get a good night’s sleep. But is there a chance your canine can get sick by the germs your children are bringing home from school? Can dogs catch human colds? I know you protect your four-legged friends just like your human children. In honor of the new school year, I thought I’d educate you on whether or not humans and canines can share illnesses. Be prepared for the pop quiz!
So, can dogs catch human colds? Good news – the answer is no!
Human Germs Only Like Humans
While some colds can thrive in a human’s body, the germs that make humans sick won’t affect your dog’s body. Wondering why you can’t pass these colds on to your dog? Well, it’s simple. Some bacteria, viruses, and infections are species-specific. So snot can be snotty. Get it? So, if you have a human-specific common cold, you can still allow dog kisses without worrying that your pet will get sick. This makes me happy, because there’s nothing I love more than cuddling and kissing on my parents. I hate to see them under the weather, so I lay the love on real thick if they’re cooped up with the cold. Paws crossed that everyone stays healthy this fall!
Ever Hear the Phrase “Sick as a Dog?”
Even though you can’t share your colds with your dog, it doesn’t mean that your dog can’t get sick. We can. Other dogs and animals may transmit bacteria and germs that could make us start to sniffle, sneeze, and cough. From the dog flu to kennel cough or a lung infection, there are many different illnesses your dog can come in contact with. Did you know that there’s a specific type of influenza called the canine flu? If your dog were to become ill with this, he may portray symptoms similar to the human flu, but rest assured, it’s transmitted by other dogs, not you!
How Would You Treat Your Dog if He Did Appear Sick?
Similar to how you treat humans: rest, increase liquids, and possibly take a trip to the doctor’s office. And when I say “possibly,” what I really mean is: You definitely want to consider taking your dog to the veterinarian if you think he’s feeling under the weather. Since we don’t speak the same language, we can’t tell you exactly what’s wrong. Your dog might have experienced an allergic reaction to something. Your dog may have a lung infection and need antibiotics. Or, your dog may have eaten all of your socks (which explains why they always go missing). It isn’t always easy to pin-point what your dog might be experiencing internally, so be on the safe side, and bring him to the vet!
Pop Quiz Time! Are You Ready?
Can dogs catch human colds? If you answered “no!” you get an A+! Your dog can’t catch a cold, just like he can’t catch a ball you pretend to throw but keep in your hand!
Have no fear, if snuggling with your dog makes you feel better when you’re feeling under the weather, it’s okay for your dog to cuddle up to you.
How do you take care of your dog when he is sick? Let us know in the comments!
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