Zoonotic Diseases!

You mean people can get that too?

What is a zoonotic disease? These infections or diseases can be transmitted from animals to people. Not all diseases your pets can get can be transmitted to you and zoonotic infections can be prevented. The two zoonotic diseases we are going to discuss are roundworms and hookworms. These worms, or parasites, both live in the intestinal tract.

Signs of infection: vomiting, sudden weight loss or lack of appetite. Some pets do not show signs of infection.

How your pets get worms: Dogs or cats are most susceptible to parasites when they are young but pets of any age can get them. Puppies as young as 2 weeks can have a worm infection due to the mother passing the parasite before birth or during nursing. 

How can these worms infect people? Cats and dogs infect their surroundings by shedding eggs or larvae in their feces. People become infected through direct contact with feces contaminated with worms. Kids can become infected by playing in dirt or a sandbox that has been contaminated with infected feces.

How do these worms harm us? Roundworms start as eggs that quickly become larvae that travel through the liver, lungs and organs. The larvae may cause damage to nerves, tissue or lodge in the eye causing permanent eye damage and blindness. Hookworms move through the skin which causes inflammation. A certain type of hookworm can penetrate deep and cause serious damage to intestines or other organs.

How can I prevent hookworm or roundworm infection for me and my pet? Deworm your puppy or kitten at an early age and then start them on a preventive medication that can control worms like Heartgard. Avoid possibly infected sand, plants or soil. Teach your kids to avoid these possibly infected areas also. Bag and throw away pet feces and cover your child's sandbox when they aren't using it.

 

For more information please consult with one of our veterinarians.