5 Hidden Germ Hazards

Protect yourself and your furry friend from falling ill by following these tips

- Nici De Wet

THERE are plenty of secret nasties living in everything from your dogs’ water bowl to their poop, some of which can cause disease in humans. Let’s take a look.

1 GERMY LICKS

While many owners allow their dogs to lick them, it’s really not a good idea. “Simply put, humans aren’t meant to tolerate some of the bacteria dogs carry in their saliva,” says Kelly Reynolds, associate professor of environmental health at the University of Arizona in the US.

While dogs have evolved to compensate for not having dental care, older dogs are prone to gum disease, tooth decay and foul breath, she points out. “These carry bacteria, not to mention the nasty germs they pick up from the environment.”

As we know, dogs love getting into the gross stuff, whether it’s the rubbish, another animal’s poop, a dead bird, a dirty puddle – the list goes on.

What to do “You don’t need to stop your dog licking you entirely but you should try to keep your face and any wounds off-limits.”

Washing your face afterwards is also recommended.

2 GRIMY PET BOWLS