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Can a dog’s lick make you lose a limb? Doctor reveals the scary truth about pet saliva

Can a dog’s lick make you lose a limb? Doctor reveals the scary truth about pet saliva

TOI Lifestyle Desk / etimes.in / Updated: Apr 3, 2025, 12:33 IST

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A doctor has warned that a dog's lick can expose humans to the Capnocytophaga bacteria, which may lead to rare but life-threatening infections. Those with weak immune systems, diabetes, or undergoing chemotherapy are at higher risk. Proper hygiene and avoiding facial licks can minimize risks.

Can a dog’s lick make you lose a limb? Doctor reveals the scary truth about pet saliva

Imagine coming back home after a long, and tiring day and being greeted by sloppy kisses from your beloved pet dog. While many pet parents and dog lovers would like this, a doctor has warned against this in a video posted on social media, which has now gone viral. Why? Well, in the viral video, the doctor reveals that letting a dog lick your face can expose you to Capnocytophaga, a bacteria and in some cases its infection can even be life-threatening. In rare cases, it can cause sepsis, flesh-eating disease, and even the need for amputations.
“Did you know that a dog’s lick can introduce harmful bacteria into your body?... It’s rare, but it can lead to life-threatening infections," The Gut Doc says in an Instagram video.
While it might sound extreme to some people, this has truly happened to Marie Turner, a pet parent who lost her limbs after being infected by her dog. In 2019, Marie from Ohio came home from vacation and was greeted with love and licks from her dog. She had a tiny cut on her hand—just enough for Capnocytophaga to enter her system. Days later, she developed a serious infection that spread rapidly, forcing doctors to amputate her arms and legs to save her life.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also backs this up, noting that while most people are unaffected, Capnocytophaga can cause serious complications when it enters the bloodstream through bites, scratches, or saliva touching broken skin.

Think twice before letting your dog lick your face: Doctor warns of flesh-eating bacteria

People who are at higher risk
For healthy individuals, the chances of getting sick from dog saliva are low. But, some people face a higher risk, including those with: diabetes, liver disease, cancer or those undergoing chemotherapy, a weakened immune system, or no spleen or alcohol dependency.

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Signs of a Capnocytophaga infection
If bacteria from a dog’s saliva enters your body, you might experience some of the following symptoms:
- Blisters, redness, or swelling near the contact area
- Fever, vomiting, or stomach pain
- Muscle aches, headaches, or confusion
- In severe cases, infections that lead to organ failure or even amputation
How to stay safe
Here are some precautions one can take, as per doctors:
- Avoid letting dogs lick your face or any open cuts
- Wash your hands and any licked areas with soap and water
- If you notice any unusual symptoms after a dog lick, seek medical help
Remember, while your furry friend’s love is priceless, it's always better to stay safe and take precautions. The next time, instead of letting them give you sloppy kisses, maybe a belly rub might be a safer way to show affection!

About the Author

TOI Lifestyle Desk

The TOI Lifestyle Desk is a dynamic team of dedicated journalists who, with unwavering passion and commitment, sift through the pulse of the nation to curate a vibrant tapestry of lifestyle news for The Times of India readers. At the TOI Lifestyle Desk, we go beyond the obvious, delving into the extraordinary. Consider us your lifestyle companion, providing a daily dose of inspiration and information. Whether you're seeking the latest fashion trends, travel escapades, culinary delights, or wellness tips, the TOI Lifestyle Desk is your one-stop destination for an enriching lifestyle experience.

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