For animal enthusiasts of affection can be shown in various ways, one is kissing their pets. But Is it safe kissing a pet?
There are many myths circulating about the safety of kissing a pet. Some believe that the animal's mouth is cleaner than the humans, while others think otherwise.
"Several types of bacteria in the mouth of a cat or dog is kind of the same bacteria as in humans. But if not admitted properly can be a dirty pet health more than human," said Dr. Paul Maza, deputy director of the health center at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, as quoted by FoxNews, Saturday (03/12/2011).
Dr Maza said if the owners noticed oral hygiene of their pets as diligent brushing and cleaning the animal's mouth, then maybe a dog or cat's mouth is cleaner than human mouths.
"So long as the animal is well maintained hygiene and oral health as well as his body, then it is safe for pet owners to kiss," he said.
Some of the diseases it can passed from pets to humans such as toxoplasmosis or bartonella. But this is very rare and is usually transmitted through animal dirt is ingested.
However for some people who have low immune systems, have HIV disease or other diseases that can lower immunity and older people, should not be too often kiss pets. This is because her immune system has decreased making it more vulnerable to infection of bacteria or germs.
"In addition, baby who was sick also should not be too frequent close to the pets," said Dr. Maza.
For that reason if you want to safely every time kissing a pet, then brush the animal's mouth with a special tool and rinse it with water, do not let pets eat leftover food in the kitchen or the trash, clean the feeding site on a regular basis and maintain a healthy body and cage.
