Sometimes living with a dog means lots of slobbery kisses on your face, hands and anywhere Toto feels it's right to lick. After being far away all day you can't avoid a warm welcome from your best friend. But beware: this explicit proof of love might be contributing for the increase of incidence of antibiotic resistant diseases in humans worldwide.
The hypothesis is being raised by Professor Nigel French, from Massey University, in New Zealand, who is going to investigate it closer thanks to a grant which is going to fund 3 years of study. After observing that there's a significant increase of urinary infections in humans cause by two types of antibiotic resistant bacteria.
According to Massey University, 68% of the households in New Zealand own pets. Of those, close to a half have 2 cats and 1/3 have dogs, which are about 700,000.
Dr. French says that the infections could be transmitted by dog's mouth contact. After all, the canine higiene standards are a bit different from ours. The study also takes in consideration that dogs are being treated with antibiotics, so that might also contribute for the worldwide resistance. So, while the study is investigating this close relationship the idea is just to be cautious and wash your hands and face after being kissed by a dog.
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