Ask A Scientist© Veterinary Topics Archive

name         Nash V.
status       student
age          14

Question -   I have been wondering if animals such as Dogs can get
sick if we,humans go close to them when we are sick as germs will be
passed on to the dog.
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No, most viruses are species specific. Some can go from dogs to humans such
as rabies, ringworm (a fungus), some parasites (roundworms and hookworms,
but only to children or immunocompromised adults), and some tick borne
diseases can affect both as well, like Lyme Disease, Erhichia, etc. Strep
(as in Strep throat can also be transmitted by humans and pets)

Phillip Raclyn, DVM CVA
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