Risks of Dog Parasites in Humans | Billings Animal Family Hospital

The Risks of Dog Parasites in Humans and How They Spread to People

Sharing your home with a dog is a rewarding experience, but it's essential to be aware of the health risks that dog parasites can pose to humans. These parasites can infect people, causing a range of symptoms from mild irritation to serious health problems. Understanding how these parasites spread to people and how to prevent infection is essential for every pet owner.

Our expert team is here to help you understand how these parasites spread and, most importantly, how to protect your family and pets through effective prevention and care.

What are dog parasites in humans?

Dog parasites in humans refer to parasites that originate in dogs but can infect people. These include a variety of worms such as roundworms, hookworms, and tapeworms, which are often classified as zoonotic parasites because they can be transmitted between animals and humans.

Not every parasite your dog may have will infect humans, but it's crucial to know about the ones that can cause health issues in people. This knowledge helps pet owners take proper precautions to protect both their pets and their families.

Billing Animal Family Hospital is here to empower pet owners with the knowledge they need to take proper precautions and protect both their pets and their families.

How do dog parasites in humans spread

The spread of dog parasites in humans typically occurs through contact with contaminated dog feces, soil, or vectors like fleas. Below are the primary ways these parasites transfer:

Contact with contaminated feces

Dogs infected with parasitic worms shed eggs in their feces, contaminating the environment. When humans come into contact with soil or surfaces polluted with these eggs, they can inadvertently ingest or touch the parasites, leading to infection.

Children playing outside or adults gardening are especially at risk if hand hygiene isn’t maintained. This is one of the most common routes for worms from dogs to transfer to humans.

Skin penetration by larvae

Certain parasites, such as hookworms, can penetrate human skin directly. Walking barefoot on contaminated soil allows hookworm larvae to burrow into the skin, causing itchy rashes and sometimes more severe infections.

Flea-borne transmission

Fleas carrying tapeworm eggs can transmit these parasites to dogs, and occasionally humans, if infected fleas are accidentally ingested. Although less common, flea control is essential to reduce this risk.

Common types of dog parasites that infect humans

Understanding the most common dog parasites in humans helps you recognize symptoms early and take steps to protect both you and your pet.

Roundworms

Roundworms are one of the most common parasites humans can get from dogs. Their eggs can survive in the environment for long periods. When ingested accidentally, these eggs hatch into larvae that migrate through human tissues, sometimes causing severe symptoms such as abdominal pain or vision problems.

Hookworms

Hookworm larvae can infect humans by penetrating the skin. The resulting condition, called “cutaneous larva migrans,” produces red, itchy tracks on the skin. Hookworms are common in areas where dogs are not regularly dewormed.

Tapeworms

Tapeworm infections usually occur when a human swallows an infected flea. While symptoms are often mild, tapeworms require medical treatment and veterinary attention to prevent reinfection.

Risks and symptoms in humans

People infected with dog parasites in humans may experience various symptoms, including:

• Itchy skin or rash

• Abdominal discomfort or pain

• Coughing or respiratory issues

• Fatigue and general malaise

• Nausea or vomiting

If you notice any of these symptoms after exposure to dogs or outdoor environments, seek medical advice from your trusted veterinarian team promptly.

How to stay safe and prevent parasite transmission

There are many ways worms from dogs can transfer to humans, but there are just as many ways to avoid parasite transmission and keep both us and our pets safe and healthy.

1. Regular veterinary care and deworming

Keep your dog up-to-date with deworming and parasite prevention treatments prescribed by your veterinarian. This reduces the chances of your pet shedding parasite eggs.

2. Prompt and proper cleanup of dog feces

Always clean up after your dog immediately. Proper disposal prevents environmental contamination and breaks the parasite transmission cycle.

3. Practice good hand hygiene

Wash your hands thoroughly after playing with pets, gardening, or handling soil. Teach children to do the same.

4. Flea control

Use vet-approved flea control products regularly to protect your pet and household members from fleas that carry tapeworms.

5. Avoid barefoot walking in areas with dog waste

Wear shoes outdoors, especially in areas where dogs frequently defecate, to prevent hookworm larvae from entering your skin.

When to consult professionals

If you suspect you or your pet may be infected with parasites that humans can get from dogs, contact your healthcare provider or veterinarian immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications.

Protect your family and pets from dog parasites

Understanding the risks of dog parasites in humans and how they spread to people is the first step toward keeping your household safe. For more expert advice on parasite prevention and pet care, visit the Billings Animal Family Hospital.

If you want to stay prepared for emergencies, download our Emergency Vet Contact Card to have vital contact information on hand at all times.

Have questions or concerns? We're here to help, don't hesitate to contact us.