Can a Streptococcal throat be associated with dogs?
Streptococcus pyogenes, the cause of “strep throat” in humans does not cause tonsillitis in dogs or cats. However, dogs and cats can acquire a transient infection with this bacterium when they are in contact with a human with a streptococcal throat infection. Although they do not get the infection, they may harbour the bacterium and pass it on to other people. Therefore, it is suggested that dogs be treated when family members have streptococcal throat infection, especially if recurring infections occur in the household.
