Why pets shouldn’t be allowed to lick your face & not allowed to sleep with you on the bed

Being a pet parent is a beautiful feeling indeed. That wagging tail every time you come from work to that small button-like nose nudging you to pet them are all so irresistible because those innocent eyes melt your heart and knowingly manipulate you to do what they want. However, in a practical sense, as per vets, some of the things you do are not just harmful to you but to your pet too! Don’t believe us? Scroll down to know the facts listed by the experts that opened our eyes for sure.

It looks all cute and feels all fuzzy in the pit of our stomach but the hard fact is that you are inviting bacteria and more things gross. Dr. Vivek Arora, senior veterinarian at Dr. Gandhi’s Pet Hospital, New Delhi told us that “Bacteria from dog saliva can cause skin infections, irritation, and allergic responses. Also, a dog’s coat/fur has several bacteria, dermatophytes, mites, ticks, and fleas, commonly termed ‘commensals ’. This flora can cause varieties of skin infections, immunological diseases, and dermatological conditions in human beings.”

Their bacteria is harmful for us but have you ever realised that by licking you, they are also licking your salty sweat and cosmetics that can be poisonous for them? Dr. Shilpy Minz at Wiggles MyVet, told us that “one important consideration is not allowing pets to lick our faces or lips. The cosmetics we use on our face, lips and skin can cause stomach infections or even toxicity in pets. Also, if pets have dental issues, they can transfer bacteria to humans, causing infections.

At no point should you feed them from your plate or hand. Dr Arora pointed out that this practice “not only encourages them to ask for human food but also hand feeding is not a healthy habit. If you indulge in bringing your pet on the bed or couch, make sure you groom your pet every day. Check his/her paws once the pet is back from the walk or whatever outing”

Both Dr. Arora & Dr. Minz backed some important tips that must be kept in mind if you have a pet at home. If you do get your pet on your bed then do not forget to maintain basic clean hygiene.

1. Wash & place your bedding under the sun to kill the germs & bacteria and also to get rid of the smell pets have.
2. Use anti-bacterial soap
3. Use a good anti-bacterial face wash.
4. Keep your pet up to date with preventives against ectoparasites, even if the presence is low or not there.
5. Regular dental check-ups, vaccinations, deworming, and maintaining good hygiene are essential for pets.
6. Pet parents should also ensure that they clean their pets' paws and bodies after every walk to avoid transferring of dirt and bacteria.

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