Risk of Infection from Dog Licking a Small Wound: What to Do?

Q: Risk of Infection from Dog Licking a Small Wound: What to Do?

Dear Ms. Lee： 1. The Capnocytophaga canimorsus you mentioned is a bacterium found in the oral cavity of dogs, and I have never encountered or diagnosed it in my clinical practice. It is not part of the normal human microbiota. Therefore, once it enters the bloo

A small wound was licked by a dog?

Hello, doctor.
This morning, my hand was licked by a dog owned by a community resident, and there is a small unhealed wound in that area (a type of wound where dry skin near the nail was torn and bled a little).
I remember reading about a bacterium called Capnocytophaga canimorsus, which seems to be transmitted through dog saliva to wounds.
I washed the area with soap about thirty minutes after being licked.
Is there a possibility of infection? Do I need to seek medical attention? If so, which specialty should I see?

Li, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/03/31

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine

Dear Ms.
Lee:
1.
The Capnocytophaga canimorsus you mentioned is a bacterium found in the oral cavity of dogs, and I have never encountered or diagnosed it in my clinical practice.
It is not part of the normal human microbiota.
Therefore, once it enters the bloodstream, there is a risk of infection.
In fact, there are many types of bacteria present in a dog's mouth, and Capnocytophaga canimorsus is not the only bacterium that poses a risk.
2.
Most bacteria can be effectively eliminated using soap or hand sanitizer.
Although there was a slight delay in your handwashing, theoretically, the chances of developing a systemic reaction or sepsis should be low.
However, as a precaution, I still recommend monitoring the wound for any changes.
If you notice signs of worsening or experience any discomfort, it is advisable to consult an infectious disease specialist at a hospital.
3.
If you have further questions, I suggest discussing them with your family physician, who can also examine your wound.

Reply Date: 2019/03/31

More Info

When it comes to the risk of infection from a dog licking a small wound, there are several factors to consider. First, it's important to understand that while dogs can carry various bacteria in their mouths, the risk of serious infections from a dog lick is generally low, especially if the wound is minor and has been cleaned properly afterward.

In your case, you mentioned that you had a small wound near your fingernail that was slightly bleeding, and that a dog licked it. The primary concern here is the potential for bacterial infection. Dogs' mouths can harbor bacteria such as Pasteurella, which is commonly found in the mouths of healthy dogs and can cause infections if introduced into broken skin. Other bacteria, including those that cause more serious infections, can also be present, but the likelihood of contracting a severe infection from a single lick is relatively low.

The fact that you washed the area with soap about thirty minutes after the incident is a positive step. Proper cleaning of the wound is crucial in preventing infection. If the wound was cleaned thoroughly and is not showing signs of infection (such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, or pus), the risk of developing an infection is significantly reduced.

However, if you notice any signs of infection developing, or if you experience increased pain or swelling in the area, it would be wise to seek medical attention. In such cases, a healthcare provider may prescribe antibiotics to prevent or treat an infection. If you do decide to see a doctor, you would typically visit a primary care physician or a family medicine doctor, as they can assess the wound and provide appropriate treatment.

Regarding the specific concern about Capnocytophaga canimorsus, which is a bacterium that can be transmitted through dog bites or scratches, it is important to note that transmission through licking is much less common. This bacterium is more often associated with bites or deep wounds rather than superficial contact. Nevertheless, individuals with compromised immune systems or underlying health conditions may be at a higher risk for infections from such bacteria.

In summary, while there is a potential risk of infection from a dog licking a small wound, the actual risk is generally low, especially if the wound has been cleaned properly. Monitoring the wound for any signs of infection is essential, and if you have any concerns or if the wound does not heal properly, seeking medical advice is always a prudent choice. Regular veterinary care for pets, including vaccinations and health checks, can also help minimize the risk of zoonotic diseases being transmitted from pets to humans.

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