Unconditional love, that’s what we all crave this Valentines, right? But have hours swiping left on the apps, that awkward work set-up with Brian from accounting or simply a chosen focus on new priorities, left you single this Valentines season? Don’t panic, your canine best bud, champion cheerleader, enthusiastic door greeter will be there, tail wagging, ready for sofa snuggles and doggy kisses! Indeed at Paste Dental Belfast, we have Bentley, our four pawed Chief Smile Officer!

As children they taught us about unconditional love, but take care, as recent studies have shown your doggo may be giving you more than slobber this Valentines!

Most pet owners are unaware that they can contract the specific bacteria that causes gum disease from their fur babies!

Gum disease (periodontitis), the disease process which can lead to tooth loss, bone breakdown and further systemic illness affects between 50-70% of dogs with certain breeds being more predisposed such as, Toy Poodles, Yorkshire Terriers, Maltese and Pomeranians. Studies have shown that transmission can occur from dog to human, through licking and slobbers, leading to humans picking up bacteria such as T. forsythia, and T. denticola, leading to gum disease.

A study from the University of Lisbon has further found that dogs, cats and their owners can share oral bacteria, likely from letting our pets kiss us on the mouth or not washing our hands thoroughly enough after picking up their waste or clearing their litter tray. What however is concerning in this research, is the findings that the bacteria shared may in some instances be antibiotic resistant. Half of the infected pets tested had antibiotic resistant strains of bacterial infections such as E Coli.

Salmonella and Gastroenteritis can also be passed from our furry friends, with C. canimorsus another bacteria commonly found in the saliva of dogs causing human disease in those who have had their spleen removed or indeed are immunocompromised through disease, treatment or a poorly developed immune system. Unfortunately pets can even transmit parasites such as roundworms, hook worms and Giardia through a kiss, although thankfully it’s not very common.

So what can be done?

Always wash your hands, face and neck indeed if you pet licks or kisses you! Try to avoid letting them kiss you on the lips and be aware of their own oral hygiene, what they have been eating, where they have been sniffing!

For us humans, as a dentist I recommend maintaining personal good oral hygiene, including twice daily brushing, daily inter-dental cleaning or flossing and regular 6 monthly check-ups with your dentist. This approach will flag any issues early and let you take an early-intervention approach to dental problems, prior to any major set-back. 

For our furry friends, well, they might appreciate a new squeeky toy or a doggy treat this year, instead of a smacker on the lips!