Dogs Spread Salmonella To Humans

Diamond Pet Foods has recalled some of their food product because of possible salmonella contamination. Not only did dogs get sick, but 14 people nationwide got sick with the disease.

Veterinarians in Colorado Springs say it is very easy for salmonella to spread from animals to people.

“If you just pet an animal on their skin or fur, you can still get sick. If you are scooping the dog food out with your hand you are assuming it is safe,” said Dr. Gretchen Kasameyer.

A dog with salmonella can get other dogs sick too, and that could spread to its owners. Places like dog parks can spread salmonella too because of possible contaminated dog waste. Dog owners at one Colorado Springs dog park said it is something they think about when they take their pooches out to play.

“Especially with them being so close with their mouths and then playing. It is easy for them to get diseases, especially salmonella,” said Skyler Hasling, a pet owner.

Salmonella can be easy to heal from for many animal and people, but can require a trip to the doctor. There is an easy way to keep you and your family from getting sick– wash your hands, but a quick rinse will not do.

“You should use 30 seconds of water with soap, scrub, and wait– then rinse. As opposed to the five seconds that most of us do,” said Kasameyer.

Dr. Kasameyer also said the best way to know if it is time to take your dog to the vet, is if the animal is not drinking water or if there is blood in its waste.