Over the last week, I have seen multiple stories on the Web about the potential risks of sharing the bed with your dog. As covered by CNN Health, the February issue of a CDC health journal contains a report about various pathogens we can get from snuggling with our dogs. The UK’s Daily Mail says that allowing your dog in your bed “may increase the chances of contracting everything from worms to the bubonic plague.”
Yes, it is true that there are several zoonotic diseases that all pet owners should know about. However, I think these stories can be taken the wrong way and cause some unnecessary alarm.
Personally, I feel that a study like this should serve as a reminder to keep our pets healthy. The decision to allow your dog on the bed or other furniture is one of personal preference.
Like many of us, I cuddle with my pets and have always allowed them on the bed and couch. They get regular vet or pet practitioner’s check-ups, and I have never had any problems. Working in the pet health field, I do understand the risks associated with handling animals — especially those with unknown histories. But when it comes to my own pets, I know the risk is minimal.
It’s a bit of a controversy among dog owners. Many of us cannot imagine banishing our dogs from the bed or sofa, while others are completely against dogs on the furniture. What’s the right thing to do? The truth is, there is no rule that is set in stone.
It really depends on you and your dog. What’s your opinion? Do you allow your dogs to share your bed and couch? Have you had any problems with your health from your dog sleeping with you? If not, is there really a problem to worry or be concerned about?
Keep you and your pet healthy and you both will be happy sleepers.
Linda Buhler operates Colour Me Healthy Alternative Health Pet Care in Oliver.