Dog Germs – Are Your Kids At Risk?

When we as parents watch as our dog covers our little one with sloppy wet kisses, it is hard not to worry about what types of bacteria and dog germs there might be all over that tongue. Dogs as well as all other types of family pets carry germs, but is it something to worry about? Here are some tips you can use to cut down on dog germs in your home.

1. Wash Up- Teach your children that it is important to wash their hands after playing with the dog. Especially if your children are using one of the dog’s toys. Those chewed up tennis balls and rubber bones can carry more then their far share of bacteria.
2. Poop Patrol- Cleaning up after your dog regularly is a good idea for obvious reasons, avoiding your dogs mess from coming into your home on the bottom of shoes is important when trying to cut down on dog germs.
3. Brush- Have your children learn to brush the dog’s teeth regularly. A dog’s oral hygiene is important in their health and overall quality of life, and will help to keep that slobbering mouth clean.
4. Bath Time- Some of the most worrisome forms of bacteria are found in a dog’s fur. Bathing your dog every couple of months is vital in your fight against pet dander and dog germs.
5. Dog Area- Designate a corner of your house to your dog and his belongings. Teach your children that this area is not for playing, this will avoid any dog toys, blankets or treats from ending up in the hands and mouths of children.
6. No Kissing- If possible it is a good idea to train your dog not to lick faces, however some dogs are just born to give kisses. Make sure your children know to not allow excessive licking and to wash-up afterwards.
7. Brush Again- Brushing a dog’s fur during certain times of the year will cut down on shedding, and as a result will decrease the amount of loose fur in your home and in the air.
8. Dirty Laundry- Make sure to wash your dog’s bedding. As with our own blankets and sheets, a dog’s bed can become soiled quickly and should be cleaned on a regular basis.
9. Food Bowls- A dog’s water and food bowls can be kept in a cupboard when not in use. This can help prevent children, especially crawling infants, from making a game out of mixing water and kibbles. Stainless steel food bowls are
10. Clean your Plate- Children will always think it is a great trick to let the dog lick their dinner plate clean. Sometimes, for this reason, it is easier to train your dog to stay in the living room during meal time.

While the “old wives tale” that dogs’ mouths are cleaner than ours may not be true, there is no reason to be overly concerned about dog germs and the effect they may have on your children. Taking normal sanitary precautions as noted above will keep your children—and your dog—happy and healthy!