Dogs, diseases from

Infectious or parasitic diseases that are acquired from contact with dogs. They may be caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi, protozoa, worms, insects, or mites living in or on a dog. Many parasites that live on dogs can be transferred to humans. The most serious disease from dogs is rabies. The UK is free of rabies, but travellers to countries in which rabies exists should treat any bite with suspicion. Dog bites can cause serious bleeding and shock and may become infected. Toxocariasis and hydatid disease are potentially serious diseases caused by the ingestion of worm eggs from dogs. In the tropics, walking barefoot on soil that is contaminated with dog faeces can lead to dog hookworm infestation. Bites from dog fleas are an occasional nuisance. Ticks and mites from dogs, including a canine version of the scabies mite, are other common problems. The fungi that cause tinea infections in dogs can be caught by humans. Some people become allergic to animal dander (tiny scales from fur or skin). They may, for example, have asthma or urticaria when a dog is in the house. (See also zoonoses.)