preview

Ringworm Disease

Decent Essays

Pets can make fantastic companions and fun playmates. Most pet owners are aware of the more disgusting parts of owning a furry loved one, such as cleaning out the litter box, scrubbing up the occasional accident and enduring slobbery kisses. Unfortunately, these may not be the grossest things that your pet can make you deal with. Pets can spread dangerous diseases that can sometimes be deadly if left untreated. Be aware of these diseases the next time you are playing with your pet to keep you and your family safe.

1. Ringworm

A highly contagious fungal infection, ringworm is commonly found in cats and dogs. Animals with the infection normally have patches of missing hair on their fur with red spots on their bare skin. In humans, a circular patch forms on the skin. It can be prevented by washing sheets twice a month in hot water and …show more content…

Tapeworms

Children are most susceptible to getting tapeworm from their four-legged friends because they are the least likely to wash their hands. Tapeworms are spread through flea, so keeping your pet flea-free is the best prevention. In humans, tapeworms can cause weight loss, as the parasites attach themselves to the intestines and digest the food that is eaten, diarrhea, stomach pain and vomiting.

9. Rabies

A rare, but extremely fatal, disease, rabies can be prevented by avoiding wild animals and getting your pet vaccinated. Symptoms in pets include foaming of the mouth, staggering and behavioral changes. Humans who have been bitten by a rabid animal may experience itching by the bite, anxiety, confusion and hallucinations. If your pet has symptoms, call animal control and stay away from them, because the disease is transmitted through saliva.

10. Hookworms

These parasites attach to your dogs' intestines and can kill them if they drink enough of their blood. The parasites are contracted through eggs in the dogs' feces, so cleaning them up promptly will prevent them from hatching and attaching themselves to your dog or to

Get Access