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Is it possible to contract a staph infection from a dog?

Introduction to Staph Infections

Staphylococcus aureus, commonly referred to as staph, is a type of bacteria that can cause infections in both humans and animals. Staph infections are common and often occur on the skin, but they can also affect other parts of the body, such as the lungs, bones, and bloodstream. While staph infections are generally treatable with antibiotics, some strains of staph have become resistant to antibiotics, making them more difficult to treat.

Staph Infections in Dogs

Dogs can also get staph infections, which can cause a range of symptoms, including skin infections, ear infections, and urinary tract infections. Like humans, dogs can also develop antibiotic-resistant strains of staph, which can be more difficult to treat. While staph infections in dogs are generally not life-threatening, they can be uncomfortable for the dog and require medical attention.

Types of Staph Infections

There are two main types of staph infections: methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA) and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). MSSA is the more common type of staph infection and can be treated with antibiotics. MRSA, on the other hand, is resistant to certain antibiotics and can be more difficult to treat. MRSA is more commonly associated with hospital-acquired infections, but it can also be acquired in the community or from animals.

Mary Allen

Written by Mary Allen

Hello, I'm Mary! I've cared for many pet species including dogs, cats, guinea pigs, fish, and bearded dragons. I also have ten pets of my own currently. I've written many topics in this space including how-tos, informational articles, care guides, breed guides, and more.

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