Expert warns kissing dogs on the mouth could lead to serious health risks, including limb loss or death—pet owners still take the risk

For many pet owners, receiving kisses from their furry friends is a joyous and common occurrence.

However, recent discussions have highlighted potential health risks associated with this affectionate gesture. A growing body of evidence suggests that allowing dogs and cats to lick your face could lead to serious bacterial infections, with some cases resulting in limb loss or even fatality.

The debate is split between those who eagerly welcome pet kisses and those who firmly decline them. Adorable as they may seem, it’s crucial to consider where a pet’s tongue has been before allowing it to come into contact with your skin. Pets often lick their own bodies and consume items that are far from hygienic, such as grass stained with fecal matter.

The risk lies in what the pet leaves behind during these seemingly innocent exchanges. A physician’s assistant, known as “medexplained2you” on TikTok, has raised awareness about the dangers of kissing pets on the mouth.

He warns of infections caused by Capnocytophaga Canimorsus, a bacteria found in the mouths of dogs and cats. While these germs do not harm pets, they can be harmful to humans, especially when transmitted through close contact.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) corroborates this concern, noting that Capnocytophaga can cause severe health complications in humans, including heart attacks, kidney failure, and gangrene.

In extreme cases, it can necessitate amputation. Symptoms typically appear within three to five days, and the infection can be particularly deadly for people with weakened immune systems, the elderly, heavy drinkers, and those without a spleen.

Several high-profile cases have brought attention to this issue. In 2022, South African actress Charlbi Dean passed away from bacterial sepsis, possibly exacerbated by her lack of a spleen. Ohio’s Marie Trainer underwent amputation of both hands and legs following an infection from her German shepherd puppy. Similar cases have been reported in Wisconsin, where two individuals suffered severe consequences from Capnocytophaga.

@medexplained2you Dog owners beward! #fyp #foryou #foryoupage #dog #medical #medicine #doctor #dr #nurse #pa #dogs #pet #pets ♬ L$d – Luclover

Despite these alarming stories, many pet lovers remain undeterred, arguing that the emotional bond with their pets outweighs the risks. They share stories of decades-long practices of pet kissing without any adverse health effects. Some even find humor in the situation, comparing the cleanliness of pet mouths to that of humans.

Nonetheless, a segment of the online community appreciates the warnings. They emphasize the importance of protecting vulnerable groups, like children and infants, from potential health hazards posed by pet saliva.

As this discussion continues, it invites us to reflect on our interactions with our beloved pets. While the risks associated with pet kisses may be low, they are not negligible. It’s a reminder that our affectionate gestures, though well-intentioned, can have unintended consequences for our health.