Wednesday, May 22, 2013

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Man's best friend can pass along illnesses
Posted: 09.11.2012 at 1:23 PM
Colby Gallagher

Colby Gallagher joined the Fox 31 News Team in April 2012 as a general assignment reporter. Colby hails from Sewell, New Jersey and is an avid Philly sports fan.

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Humans can get a multitude of illnesses from their canine companions including mange and worms.  / File
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ALBANY, GA --
In our Facebook Story of the Day, you wanted to know what illnesses your dog can pass on to you.

Companion Animal Hospital's Dr. Carie Wisell says there are parasites and bacteria dogs can pass on that can be dangerous or even deadly for both the pet and owner, though they're not seen often.

"It's not so much that it's real common that it happens, it's just when it does happen, it's pretty darn bad for a human," said Dr. Wisell.

Worms such as hooks, rounds or heart worms can be passed on; sometimes owners can't see them in a dog's stool but it doesn't mean they're not there says Dr. Wisell.

Parasites like Coccidia and Giardia live in the intestines and can also be transferred from dogs and cause severe symptoms and illness in humans.

Dogs can also pass on mange to humans in the form of scabies, a skin disease.

Dr. Wisell says these illnesses cause vomiting or diarrhea in dogs but can cause more severe problems for humans. If you start to show symptoms shortly after your dog gets sick, Dr. Wisell says go to the hospital immediately.

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