Yes, you can get the roundworm, tapeworm, or hookworm from your dog sleeping on your bed. So, in as much as comforting your pooch is a good thing, you shouldn't put yourself at risk. Worm infestation could lead to severe health issues. Most of them are harmful to humans.
How likely is it to get worms from your dog?
In most cases, a person has to ingest parasite-laden feces in order to contract worms from an animal. Good common sense and hygiene greatly reduces the risk, Weese said. “The risk is never zero,” Weese said, “but I'm not convinced it's any higher for a vet than someone that goes for a walk in the park.”
How do I know if I got worms from my dog?
An itchy rash at the point of penetration is the most obvious of the symptoms of a hookworm infection. Winding red trails may also be visible as the worm eats a path for itself under the skin. Severe cases may cause diarrhea, and can lead to weight loss and anemia.
Can a human get worms from a dog?
Roundworms do pose a significant risk to humans. Contact with contaminated soil or dog feces can result in human ingestion and infection. Roundworm eggs may accumulate in significant numbers in the soil where pets deposit feces. Once infected, the worms can cause eye, lung, heart and neurologic signs in people.
What are the dangers of sleeping with your dog?
In the United States, the risk of disease from sleeping with your pet is low, with most risk coming from: fleas and ticks. ringworm. skin infections due to mites.touching feces.licking the face or an open wound.scratches.bites.Sleeping with Dogs: Benefits for Your Health, Risks, and Precautions
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