Dogs can spread salmonella, researchers caution

It doesn’t mean they don’t love dogs, but researchers from Pennsylvania State University have found that four-legged friends are an often-overlooked spreader of antibiotic-resistant salmonella. 

The bacteria is often transmitted through contaminated food. But it also can be spread by infected animals – typically through unintentional touching of poop. Salmonella infections can cause diarrhea, fever and abdominal cramps – and sometimes can be life-threatening.

For their study, the researchers identified salmonella strains isolated from domestic dogs between May 2017 and March 2023. They then matched the timing and location of 87 cases to strains isolated from humans and found 77 suspected zoonotic cases, “meaning the bacteria moved from a pet dog to a human.”

One of their concerns is how close people and their dogs sometimes get – like sharing a bed at night or sitting together on the couch while watching TV. This raises the risk of transmission. Food contamination and improper food handling also increases the likelihood of infection.

The researchers recommend washing your hands often and other proper hygiene methods to prevent exposure.

“Our goal is not to discourage pet ownership but to ensure that people are aware of potential risks and take simple steps …. to keep both their families and their furry companions safe,” said study co-author Erika Ganda, an assistant professor at PSU.

The study was published in the journal Zoonoses and Public Health.