All About Pets • Volume 3 • Issue 2 • Jan–Apr 2023 6 Benefits of Licking in Animals It is observed that dogs, mice, and ants lick their wounds, during which their saliva spreads all over the wounds and scratches. Licking is an instinctual response in these animals, which soothes them from pain and irritation, and the healing property of saliva helps wounds recover quickly. In addition, licking can remove debris from wounds, while helping to alleviate soreness. According to a study published in the Physiology & Behavior journal, published in 1990, dog saliva kills Streptococcus canis, a bacterium that causes infections in animals, and Escherichia coli. However, while licking wounds, there is a chance of transferring infectious bacteria from the mouth to the injured site. Although saliva has antibacterial property, it cannot be considered as an antimicrobial. Overall, wound licking is a good option for wild animals when there are no alternatives. Pet parents should take a veterinarian’s advise if they observe their pet licking himself/herself excessively and for tips to help their pet avoid the habit. Source: Leffer L. Why do dogs and other animals lick their wounds? https://www.livescience. com/why-animals-lick-wounds. Published April 10, 2022. Accessed December 5, 2022.
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