I have a 2-year-old grandchild who loves to play with our Spaniel “Goldy”. While playing, Goldy often licks my grandson. Can Goldy transmit any disease/infection to him? What precautions should I take? –

Dogs, like humans, are susceptible to a variety of diseases and conditions that are caused or exacerbated by poor hygiene. Some diseases found in dogs can be transferred to humans, so it is essential to insist on strict hygiene rules for the entire family. Because young children may not fully understand the importance of personal hygiene, a new puppy that has not yet been toilet trained poses a health risk for children crawling around. They can put their hands in dog faeces, and pick up certain skin infections or round worm eggs from the floor or ground. Young children are likely to have less resistance than adults and can pick up a mild or serious type illness. Likewise, saliva from infected dogs might transmit certain infections to susceptible babies. Discourage kissing or excessive licking.

Question by – D’ Souza, Mumbai