Antibiotic-resistant Salmonella is becoming a growing concern, particularly as the bacteria adapt to evade treatments. While most people think of contaminated food as the main source, researchers at Penn State have highlighted household dogs as a less obvious transmission route. Their study suggests that our beloved pets could be unwitting carriers of antibiotic-resistant strains of Salmonella, posing risks to human health.
How Dogs Can Transmit Salmonella
Salmonella is commonly associated with foodborne illnesses, but it can also spread through contact with infected people or animals. This can happen when handling contaminated pet food, touching a dogâs fur, or even through close interactions like petting or cuddling. Dogs infected with Salmonella may show symptoms like diarrhoea, fever, and stomach cramps or carry the bacteria without any signs of illness.
The study, published in Zoonoses and Public Health, highlights the importance of recognising dogs as a potential transmission point. Researchers emphasised the need for better hygiene practices to reduce the risk of cross-species infections.
Investigating Salmonella in Dogs
The Penn State team analysed data from 87 cases of Salmonella in dogs collected between 2017 and 2023. They compared these strains with human cases to identify patterns of zoonotic transmission, where bacteria jump from animals to humans. Of the 164 strains examined, many showed resistance to antibiotics deemed critical by the World Health Organisation.
Interestingly, some of these dog-associated strains were closely linked to human infections, reinforcing the idea that companion animals play a role in spreading resistant bacteria. The researchers called for stronger antimicrobial stewardship and ongoing surveillance to manage this issue effectively.
Lessons from Past Outbreaks
One example of zoonotic transmission involved an outbreak of Salmonella linked to pig ear dog treats in the United States, which sickened over 150 people. This incident highlights how contaminated pet products and improper handling can lead to infections, not just in pets but also in their owners.
Simple Steps to Stay Safe
Experts recommend simple hygiene practices to reduce the risk of Salmonella transmission. These include washing hands after handling pets, their food, or their waste, and ensuring pet food is stored and prepared safely. Avoid letting dogs lick your face or sleep in your bed if they are unwell or at risk of carrying infections.
Balancing Risks and Rewards
Despite the risks, dogs provide countless physical and mental health benefits, from reducing stress to encouraging physical activity. The goal isnât to discourage pet ownership but to increase awareness of potential risks and encourage responsible pet care.
By staying informed and practising good hygiene, we can enjoy the companionship of our best friends while keeping our families safe from potential infections.
